This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a hearty dish that combines tasty ground beef with tiny orzo pasta. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights!
You won’t believe how quick this meal comes together! Just cook the beef, stir in the orzo, and let it simmer. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is ideal here for flavor and texture. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you want plant-based, try crumbled tempeh or lentils!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo adds a fun shape and texture. If you can’t find orzo, try using small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even rice, but you’ll need to adjust cooking time and liquid.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. Fresh tomatoes can work, but be sure to chop them finely. Also, consider replacing them with tomato sauce for a smoother texture.
Beef Broth: Enhance flavor with beef broth, but chicken broth or vegetable broth can be good substitutes, especially for lighter dishes. Low-sodium options are great if you’re watching your salt intake.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Ground Beef?
Brown your ground beef well to develop rich flavor. Here’s how:
- Cook over medium-high heat so it sears nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; allow it to brown well rather than steam.
- Season as you cook! Adding spices early helps flavor infiltrate the meat.
Letting the beef get a little crispy on the edges really boosts that savory flavor you’ll love in this dish!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 25 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick, one-pan meal that is both satisfying and easy to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef into the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir and cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off carefully.
3. Add the Seasonings:
Now, sprinkle in the dried oregano, thyme, paprika, and some salt and pepper. Stir everything together so the beef is well coated with the spices.
4. Incorporate the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and mix it with the beef mixture. Make sure the pasta gets a good coating from the juices in the skillet.
5. Combine the Liquids:
Pour in the beef broth, water, and can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain it!). Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
7. Taste and Adjust:
After it’s cooked, give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed for the perfect flavor.
8. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’d like, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for creaminess and extra flavor.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your orzo dinner with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Bon appétit! This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
FAQ for Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. For a meatless option, consider using lentils, crumbled tempeh, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just cook the orzo separately when you’re ready to serve, then combine them before enjoying your meal!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is filling on its own, but you could serve it with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal. Garlic bread is also a great pairing if you’re in the mood for some extra carbs!
