This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is quick and tasty! It features tender orzo pasta mixed with seasoned ground beef and colorful vegetables, all in one pot for less mess.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can use lean ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative. For a plant-based version, try crumbled tempeh or cooked lentils instead!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a small pasta that cooks quickly. If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even rice; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Diced Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience, or fresh tomatoes if you have them. If you want a little heat, diced tomatoes with green chilies are a great option.
Vegetables: Bell peppers add color and sweetness. Feel free to mix it up with zucchini, carrots, or even frozen mixed vegetables. Fresh spinach or kale adds nutrition, but you can skip them if you don’t have them on hand.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly Without It Getting Mushy?
Cooking orzo is simple, but it can easily turn mushy if overcooked. Here’s how to get it just right:
- When adding orzo, ensure your broth is boiling. This helps the pasta cook quickly.
- Stir the orzo in to avoid clumping. Then cover the pot to trap steam.
- Check if it’s tender after 10 minutes. If there’s still liquid, cook for a few more minutes, but watch closely!
- Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially in the last minutes of cooking.
With these tips, your orzo will be fluffy and delicious every time!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be making a delicious dinner in just 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This adds a great flavor base!
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the mixture. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Seasoning Time:
Once the beef is browned, season it with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and paprika. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where the flavor really starts coming together!
4. Toss in the Veggies:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped bell peppers, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. This brings in some lovely color and nutrition to our dish.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Next, add the orzo pasta to the pot, stirring everything to combine evenly. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot.
6. Simmer Away:
Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. During this time, the orzo will absorb the broth and become tender—make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking!
7. Greens Are Nice:
If you’re using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking until it’s wilted, adding a healthy touch to your meal.
8. Finishing Touches:
As you remove the pot from heat, sprinkle on the grated Parmesan cheese if you like it cheesy. It adds a delightful flavor! You can also serve it with fresh parsley or basil on top for that final fresh touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish it up while it’s warm and enjoy your comforting, easy savory ground beef orzo dinner!
Bon appétit! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQ for Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and enjoy a healthier option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to bring back the creaminess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies, such as zucchini, carrots, or even frozen peas. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the vegetables you’re adding.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with bouillon. Each will impart its own flavor, so choose based on your preference!
