Delicious Ground Beef Orzo

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Nothing beats a cozy, one-pan meal that’s packed with rich flavor and hearty ingredients. This Delicious Ground Beef Orzo recipe brings all that comfort together in one skillet. With tender orzo simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce and seasoned ground beef, every bite is both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or just want a comforting dish with minimal cleanup, this recipe ticks all the boxes. The orzo absorbs all the flavors as it cooks, becoming a creamy, risotto-like base for the spiced beef. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Ground Beef Orzo

This dish combines convenience and comfort in the best way. It cooks entirely in one pan, making it perfect for busy nights. You don’t need a laundry list of ingredients to get incredible flavor, and it’s adaptable enough for picky eaters or leftover veggies you need to use up. Plus, orzo makes the texture extra cozy and satisfying.

What Kind of Orzo Works Best?

You can use any standard orzo pasta for this recipe, whether regular or whole wheat. Avoid quick-cooking orzo blends, as they may get too mushy when simmered. If you’re aiming for extra creaminess, a short rest after cooking with the lid on helps it absorb the last bits of broth beautifully.

Ingredients for the Delicious Ground Beef Orzo

This recipe keeps things simple and delicious with ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to build flavor and depth in every bite:

• Ground beef
• Orzo pasta
• Yellow onion
• Garlic cloves
• Crushed tomatoes
• Beef broth
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

How To Make the Delicious Ground Beef Orzo

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Season and Add Orzo

Once the beef is cooked, stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the orzo and mix everything together to toast the orzo lightly for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and let the skillet rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This helps the orzo finish absorbing the broth. Stir everything one last time, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.

How to Serve and Store Your Ground Beef Orzo

This hearty skillet meal makes dinner effortless and satisfying. It generously feeds about 4 people, making it ideal for families or small gatherings. Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s warm and creamy. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen.

For storage, let the orzo cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to bring back its creamy texture.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Orzo?

Garlic Bread

Warm and buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing. It’s perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Simple Green Salad

Add a fresh bite to the table with a crisp salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli brings a nice char and crunch that complements the soft orzo.

Cucumber Yogurt Dip

A cooling cucumber dip on the side can balance the savory beef flavors.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots are an easy veggie side that brings color and depth.

Sauteed Zucchini

Quick and simple, zucchini adds a light, tender texture to your plate.

Parmesan Crusted Asparagus

A crisp and cheesy veggie side that pairs perfectly with beef.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Cool and refreshing with a touch of acidity to brighten up the dish.

Want More Beef Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Delicious Ground Beef Orzo, here are a few more recipes you might want to check out next:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

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Let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you add some red pepper flakes for heat? Maybe tossed in spinach at the end? I’d love to hear your spin on it.

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