Ground Beef Orzo Recipe
This Ground Beef Orzo recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender orzo pasta with seasoned ground beef and a rich tomato sauce. It's an easy one-pot meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, orzo pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, then garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.