This Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights! With juicy beef, creamy sauce, and little orzo pasta, it’s a family favorite!
You won’t believe how quickly this meal comes together. I love loading it up with veggies for extra color and crunch. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the meal lighter. If you want a healthier or different option, try ground turkey or chicken. They work nicely too!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives the dish a unique texture. You can swap it with other small pasta like ditalini, orzo-like rice, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Beef Broth: It adds depth to the flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a great substitute! Just make sure it’s low-sodium unless you like it salty.
Spinach or Kale: Adding greens boosts the nutrition. If these aren’t in your pantry, frozen spinach works well too. Just thaw and stir in at the end!
How Do I Make Sure My Orzo Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking orzo requires a little attention to achieve that perfect texture. Here’s how:
- Start by bringing your broth to a boil before adding the orzo. This helps it cook evenly.
- Once you add the orzo, reduce the heat to medium-low right away. This prevents it from overcooking.
- Stir occasionally to stop it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Check for doneness by tasting a few minutes before the package directions say. It should be al dente—tender but still with a slight bite!
These tips make a big difference, and I always keep a close eye while the orzo is cooking!
How to Make Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups beef broth (or low sodium stock)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory dinner is quick to prepare! It takes about 10 minutes to get everything ready and about 20 minutes to cook. So, in just half an hour, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Next, add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This will fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma!
2. Add the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another 30 seconds. You want it to be fragrant but not browned—this step adds fantastic flavor!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
4. Season the Beef:
Next, stir in the dried oregano, thyme, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the beef is evenly coated with those lovely spices!
5. Add the Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes. Stir them in and let the mixture simmer for about 3 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully!
6. Add the Orzo and Broth:
Pour the beef broth into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, toss in the orzo pasta.
7. Simmer to Perfection:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered. Be sure to stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid—this should take about 10-12 minutes.
8. Stir in Greens (Optional):
If you’re using spinach or kale, now is the time to stir it in! Add it during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, just until it wilts down.
9. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, if you’d like, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor!
10. Serve Your Dish:
Remove the skillet from heat and get ready to serve! Dish up the orzo dinner while it’s hot and sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a beautiful finish.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful, and easy one-pot savory ground beef orzo dinner! It’s bound to be a hit at your table! 🍽️
FAQ for Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal!
What Can I Substitute for Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with other small pasta types, like ditalini or small shells. Quinoa or a similar grain works well too if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to bring back the creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, omit the beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute. Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth, and add extra veggies or beans for protein and texture!
