This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a tasty and hearty meal that comes together in no time! With juicy ground beef and soft orzo pasta, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yumminess. Trust me, you’ll want seconds—because who can resist seconds? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter taste. You could even try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Orzo Pasta: The small, rice-shaped pasta works great here, but feel free to swap it with other small pasta types like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Beef Broth: For a lighter flavor, swap beef broth with vegetable broth. If you’re watching sodium intake, look for low-sodium broth options. Homemade broth can also enhance the taste significantly!
Diced Tomatoes: If you want a fresher taste, use fresh tomatoes. Just chop them up and add them in, but make sure to adjust liquid amounts slightly. You can also use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smokier flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Orzo is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the orzo just right is key to this dish! Here are some tips:
- Cook it low and slow. Once you bring your mixture to a boil, reduce the heat for even cooking.
- Keep it covered. This traps the steam and helps the orzo absorb the liquid efficiently.
- Check for doneness. The orzo should be tender but still a little firm (al dente). It will continue to cook as it sits.
- Don’t forget to stir occasionally! This ensures nothing sticks to the bottom and cooks evenly.
Following these tips will help you achieve the perfect orzo texture every time!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total time of about 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy choice for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re soft and translucent. This adds a lovely flavor to your dish.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You want the garlic to be fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s extra fat, you can drain it out for a leaner meal.
4. Mix in the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, making sure to coat it well with the beef mixture. This helps it soak up all those tasty flavors!
5. Combine the Liquids:
Pour in the beef broth, water, and the whole can of diced tomatoes (juice and all). Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
6. Season It Up:
Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, paprika, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir again, ensuring all the seasonings are well distributed.
7. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. You’ll want the orzo to be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
8. Finish Up:
Once it’s done, remove it from the heat. If you like, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top and give it a gentle stir.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your beef orzo hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your easy, savory ground beef orzo dinner!
FAQ for Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different meat to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo, you can easily swap it for other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even rice. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since it may vary based on the type of pasta you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead! You can cook it and then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove with a little liquid to help refresh the orzo before serving. Alternatively, you could prepare the meat mixture and cook the orzo fresh right before serving.
