Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: I always use lean ground beef; it reduces greasiness. If you want a lighter meal, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarian crumbles work great for a meatless option!

Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta shape is perfect for this dish! If orzo isn’t available, use small pasta like elbow macaroni, couscous, or quinoa for a fun twist.

Beef Broth: If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, low-sodium broth works well. Homemade broth is great too if you have it! For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.

Spinach or Kale: I think adding greens brightens the dish. You could also use frozen spinach—just thaw and squeeze out excess water. Other options like Swiss chard or even cooked peas can be used!

How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?

Cooking orzo might seem tricky, but it’s pretty straightforward! Here’s how to get it tender while avoiding clumps:

• Always cook orzo in plenty of liquid according to package instructions. It’s usually about 2 cups of liquid for every cup of orzo.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially during the first few minutes.
• Check for doneness a minute or two before the package suggests; you want it al dente, tender but with a little bite.

Using this method keeps the orzo light and fluffy in your dish. Enjoy making this comforting meal!

Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Main Dish:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)

For Seasoning and Topping:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Time Needed:

This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. You really want to savor that garlic aroma!

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is well-browned and cooked through. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and basil for a burst of flavor!

3. Toast the Orzo:

In the same skillet, stir in the orzo pasta, letting it cook for 1-2 minutes. This step helps to toast the orzo slightly, enhancing its flavor before adding liquid.

4. Add the Liquid Ingredients:

Now, pour in the beef broth, water, and diced tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

5. Simmer the Dish:

Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the orzo to be tender and most of the liquid absorbed. If you’re using spinach or kale, toss it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt beautifully!

6. Finish Up:

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The cheese will add a creamy richness that you’ll love!

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish your dinner with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it warm and enjoy your savory orzo beef dish! Perfect for a cozy meal any night of the week.

Can I Use Different Types of Meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or meat substitutes like plant-based crumbles.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the orzo if needed.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before packing it for the freezer.

What Can I Substitute for Orzo?

If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni. Quinoa or couscous can also work well, but cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on it during the simmering process!