Name: Ground Beef Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens); 1 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme)

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If you’re looking for the ultimate one-pan wonder to satisfy cozy cravings and hectic weeknight dinners, look no further than Ground Beef Orzo! This dish delivers a medley of savory flavors, unbeatable heartiness, and a fresh pop of greens in every forkful. With juicy ground beef, plump orzo, and a blanket of tender spinach, it’s an all-in-one meal that is both simple to create and totally crowd-pleasing—no boring bites here!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Ground Beef Orzo recipe is its reliance on simple, everyday ingredients that each add something unique. From the sweetness of onions to the tang of tomatoes and the earthy richness of beef, every element is important to both the taste and the texture!

1 lb lean ground beef: The star protein, it gives the dish deep, savory richness and makes every bite hearty.
1 cup orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta soaks up all the flavors for a creamy, satisfying finish.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness, depth, and a gentle aromatic foundation to the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a bold punch of savory flavor that lifts everything.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs: Provides acidity, juiciness, and a subtle blend of Italian herbs.
2 cups low-sodium beef broth: Creates just the right amount of sauciness while boosting the meaty umami.
2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens): Wilted in at the end, it offers freshness, vibrant color, and a sneaky veggie boost.
1 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme): This medley pulls all the components together with classic Mediterranean flair.

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo

Step 1: Prep the Aromatics

Before you even turn on the stove, take a few moments to chop the onion and mince the garlic. This small bit of prep means everything can move quickly once you start cooking, setting the stage for a flavor-packed dish from the very first step.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in your chopped onion and let it sauté for about five minutes, until translucent and fragrant. This gentle cook brings out the onion’s natural sweetness, making a perfect base for your Ground Beef Orzo.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef right into your skillet, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Break up the meat with your spoon and let it cook until it’s nicely browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is where the savory depth begins, as all those flavorful juices start mingling with the onion.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in your minced garlic and canned diced tomatoes (including their juices). Simmer everything for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the garlic to mellow and the tomatoes to infuse the beef with their herbal, tangy goodness.

Step 5: Add Orzo and Broth

Now, pour in the orzo and beef broth. Bring the skillet to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. The orzo will absorb the flavorful broth and swell up into little pillows, making every bite of your Ground Beef Orzo incredibly comforting.

Step 6: Stir in Spinach and Seasonings

Finally, toss in the fresh spinach and Italian seasoning. Stir for about a minute—just until the greens wilt and the whole pan smells herby and irresistible. Everything comes together beautifully at this stage, and your Ground Beef Orzo is ready to serve!

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo

Garnishes

Ground Beef Orzo deserves a little finishing touch! Sprinkle over some grated Parmesan for a cheesy lift, or add a handful of fresh chopped basil or parsley for brightness. A crack of black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil at the table never hurts either, and makes each bowl look and taste extra special.

Side Dishes

This dish is delightfully complete on its own, but for extra oomph, pair it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad with lemony vinaigrette, or even simple roasted vegetables. The soft, flavorful orzo pairs especially well with crisp textures and lively flavors on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or just want to shake up dinnertime, serve your Ground Beef Orzo in shallow bowls topped with extra greens and a sprinkle of chili flakes for color. Or, try spooning it into halved bell peppers, bake for a few minutes, and serve as charming edible “boats”—kids and adults alike will love it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? No worries—Ground Beef Orzo stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Just scoop it into an airtight container once it cools to room temperature. If it thickens up, a splash of broth or water will revive it when you’re ready for round two.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Ground Beef Orzo! Transfer completely cooled portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Try to lay them flat for quick freezing and easier storage. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready at a moment’s notice.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this dish is on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a little water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir gently until warmed through. For quick microwave reheating, cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between so the orzo heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous also work well, though cooking times might vary. The charm of Ground Beef Orzo comes from the tender, slightly creamy texture of orzo, but it’s so adaptable to what you have on hand.

What’s the best way to add more vegetables?

You can stir in extra veggies like chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas along with the tomatoes. These additions give your Ground Beef Orzo even more color, crunch, and nutrition!

How do I make this dish spicy?

For a kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning or toss in some finely chopped fresh chili while browning the beef. A drizzle of hot sauce at the table also works wonders for heat-seekers.

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can easily replace the beef to lighten things up. Just be sure to season well and possibly add a splash of extra olive oil, since these meats are leaner and tend to be less rich than beef.

Is Ground Beef Orzo good for meal prep?

Definitely! Ground Beef Orzo reheats easily and holds up well for several days, making it a fantastic option for make-ahead lunches or dinners. Just pack individual portions and you’ve got hearty, homemade meals ready to grab and go.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard to beat a dish that brings so much comfort and flavor with so little fuss. I hope Ground Beef Orzo becomes a beloved staple at your table, just as it has at mine. Try it soon—you might just find yourself craving it again and again!

Ground Beef Orzo Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 22 reviews

Author: Ava
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish, Ground Beef Orzo combines tender orzo pasta with seasoned ground beef, savory herbs, and nutritious spinach for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup orzo pasta
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens)
1 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme)

Instructions

Prep your ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Sauté onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
Cook ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned (6-8 minutes).
Add flavors: Stir in minced garlic and canned tomatoes; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Cook orzo: Add orzo and beef broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes.
Add spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and Italian seasoning until spinach wilts (about 1 minute).

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian