why make this recipe
This One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo is quick, simple, and filling. You cook beef, pasta, and sauce all in one pot. It saves time and cuts dishes. If you like easy dinners or other quick meals like beef and broccoli stir fry, you will like this.
introduction
This recipe makes a warm, tasty meal with basic ingredients. The orzo soaks up the tomato and beef flavor. It is good for weeknights and for feeding a family. You can add cheese or herbs on top to make it nicer.
how to make One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo
Follow the simple steps below. Brown the meat, add aromatics and orzo, then simmer until the pasta is tender. Let it rest a few minutes so the flavors settle.
Ingredients :
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions :
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Add uncooked orzo, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired before serving.
how to serve One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo
Serve hot straight from the pot. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. You can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or roasted veggies. You can also enjoy leftovers cold or warm, similar to other casserole-style dishes like beef and cheddar casserole.
how to store One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo
Cool the dish to room temperature within two hours. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or in the microwave until hot. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo
- Use lean ground beef to reduce grease. Drain if too oily.
- Stir occasionally while cooking so the orzo cooks evenly and does not stick.
- If the pasta looks dry before it is done, add a little more beef broth or water.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
- For more flavor, add a splash of red wine when you brown the beef, then let it reduce.
- Check the seasoning and add fresh herbs at the end for brightness.
variation (if any)
- Make it cheesy: stir in shredded mozzarella or a spoon of cream cheese at the end.
- Add vegetables: bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms work well.
- Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Make it spicy: add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes. Small shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells work. Cooking time may change.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Use plant-based ground meat or add extra beans and vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Q: Do I need to precook the orzo?
A: No. The recipe uses uncooked orzo and cooks it in the broth with the rest of the ingredients.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes. Cool fully and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Q: How can I prevent the orzo from sticking?
A: Stir a few times while it cooks and make sure there is enough liquid. Use a nonstick or heavy pot.
Conclusion
For another creamy take, see the Creamy One-Pot Beef Orzo Recipe | The Kitchn. For a tomato-cream style version, check Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce • Salt & Lavender.
One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Add uncooked orzo, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, and cover.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired before serving.