Description
This Ground Beef and Orzo recipe is a hearty, comforting one-pan meal featuring perfectly browned ground beef, aromatic sautéed onions and garlic, tender orzo pasta cooked in a flavorful tomato and beef broth sauce, and finished with rich parmesan cheese. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a convenient and delicious dish that combines protein and pasta in a savory Italian-inspired sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat & Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (454 g) ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
Pasta & Sauces
- 1 cup (150 g) uncooked orzo
- 15 ounces (425 g) tomato sauce
- 2 cups (473 ml) beef broth
Seasonings & Cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- â…“ cup (33 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until all beef is browned and no pink remains.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Stir occasionally and cook until the onions soften and mixture is fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo thoroughly mixing it with the beef and onion mixture to lightly coat the pasta in the flavors.
- Add Liquids & Seasonings: Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until most liquid is absorbed but the mixture remains slightly saucy and orzo is tender.
- Add Parmesan: Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until creamy and fully incorporated. Add more parmesan if desired.
- Serve: Plate the dish warm, garnish with extra parmesan cheese and optionally fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use beef with 15% or less fat content to avoid excessive grease.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye to avoid overcooking and becoming mushy.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and color.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
