If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal, this ground beef orzo recipe is just what you need! Combining the richness of ground beef with tender orzo pasta, it’s a dish that will win over even the pickiest eater. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to make this; it’s straightforward, quick, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
How to Make Delicious Ground Beef Orzo Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, letting them sauté until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic. This should take about 3–4 minutes. The sautéing process releases the essential oils and flavors from the aromatics, forming a solid flavor base for the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Push the onion and garlic to the sides of the skillet and add the ground beef to the center. Break the beef into smaller pieces using a wooden spoon and cook until it is evenly browned. This will usually take about 5–7 minutes. Ensure that the beef is browned uniformly to intensify its savory taste and blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
After browning the beef, mix in the uncooked orzo and stir well to combine all ingredients. The orzo will absorb the flavors as it cooks, becoming tender and delicious. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture reach a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Dish
Allow the orzo to cook slowly in the liquid while simmering. This should take about 10 minutes or until the orzo is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. At this point, the dish is rich in flavor and harmoniously balanced in texture.
How to Serve Delicious Ground Beef Orzo Recipe
Serve your ground beef orzo hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of color and freshness. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a full meal experience. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, serving well on its own or as part of a larger spread.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure your ground beef orzo is top-notch, consider these tips: Use high-quality beef for the best flavor. For a richer texture, you can add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the orzo as it simmers. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
High Protein Twist: Power-Packed Ground Beef Orzo
If you’re aiming for a meal with extra protein, you can tweak the recipe to include additional sources of protein. Consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas, which will boost your dish’s protein content while enhancing its texture and flavor. This variation is especially beneficial for those looking to maintain a high-protein diet without compromising on taste.
Low-Carb Magic: Zucchini Noodles and Ground Beef Delight
For a low-carb alternative, replace orzo with zucchini noodles. These zoodles provide the same fulfilling texture with a fraction of the carbs. Simply spiralize fresh zucchini and incorporate them towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their slight crispness, giving you a meal that satisfies without the carbs.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or a stovetop over low heat. If the dish appears dry, add a splash of beef broth or water to regain its saucy consistency.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, diced chicken or turkey can be used as alternatives without affecting the integrity of the dish.
- What can I substitute for orzo if I’m gluten-free? You can use gluten-free pasta or rice instead of orzo to suit dietary needs.
- Can this recipe be made in advance? Absolutely, you can prepare it a day ahead; it often tastes even better as the flavors meld.
- How can I add more spice? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Is this recipe freezable? Yes, freeze it in portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
The Delight of Homemade Ground Beef Orzo Awaits!
This ground beef orzo recipe is a wonderful addition to any meal plan. It’s delicious, versatile, and downright comforting. We hope you enjoy making it as much as savoring every heartfelt bite. Don’t forget to share your thoughts, variations, and photos with us on social media and in the comments below! Bon appétit! 😊
Delicious Ground Beef Orzo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- orzo pasta
- beef broth
- diced tomatoes
- onion
- garlic
- olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Push the onion and garlic aside, and brown the ground beef in the center of the skillet.
- Add the orzo, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.