This easy ground beef orzo dinner is a tasty mix of beef, pasta, and veggies. It’s quick to cook and makes for a cozy meal the whole family will love!
Seriously, it’s a one-pot wonder! I always enjoy skipping the extra dishes while still getting a hearty, delicious dinner on the table. Who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean beef to keep it healthier or even swap in turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives this dish a nice texture. If you can’t find orzo, substitute with other small pasta like ditalini or even rice if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking time if needed.
Broth: Beef broth adds rich flavor, but vegetable broth works just as well if you want to keep it lighter or vegetarian. Homemade broth is also a wonderful choice if you have it available!
Spinach or Kale: These greens are optional, but they add nutrition and color. If you have another leafy green like Swiss chard or even frozen peas, feel free to use those instead!
How Do I Get the Beef Browned Perfectly?
To achieve that great flavor in your beef, let it brown well before adding other ingredients. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the oil over medium heat before adding the onions. This helps ensure they’re not overcrowded in the pan.
- Break the beef into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly.
- Wait until the beef is fully browned before seasoning it. This gives a nice depth of flavor.
- If there’s too much fat after cooking, carefully drain it off for a healthier dish.
With these tips, your beef will be flavorful and your dish will come out perfectly!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup baby spinach or chopped kale (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty and delicious dinner ready for the family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.
2. Cook the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off.
3. Add the Flavor:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the dried oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well to coat the beef in those yummy spices!
4. Combine with Orzo and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta and diced tomatoes to the beef mixture. Stir everything together until it’s nicely combined.
5. Simmer:
Pour in the beef broth and give it all a good mix. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Add Greens:
If you are using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking until it wilts. This adds color and nutrition to your dish!
7. Taste and Serve:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil on top, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Enjoy your delicious and easy savory ground beef orzo dinner!
FAQ About Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use Brown Rice or Another Type of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice or other small pasta like ditalini! Keep in mind that cooking times may vary; brown rice will generally take longer to cook (about 20-25 minutes), so you may need to adjust the liquid and simmering time accordingly.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Just chop them and add them to the skillet with the onions to allow them to soften before introducing the beef.
