Ground Beef Orzo
Ground Beef Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together tender orzo pasta and seasoned ground beef in a rich and flavorful sauce. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners and can impress guests on special occasions. This recipe combines simplicity with comfort, making it a perfect addition to your family’s meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
- Flavorful: The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning creates a savory experience that delights the palate.
- Versatile: Easily customize the recipe by swapping in turkey or chicken, or adding your favorite vegetables.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and spinach, this dish offers a balanced meal option for your family.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.
Tools and Preparation
To make Ground Beef Orzo, having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here are the essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A versatile skillet allows for even cooking of the beef and helps blend flavors effectively.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping ingredients, ensuring efficiency and safety in the kitchen.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes ingredient prep quick and easy, allowing for precise cuts.

Ingredients
For the Ground Beef
- 1 lb lean ground beef
For the Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
For the Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens)
For the Sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme)
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. This will help streamline your cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, approximately 6-8 minutes.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Stir in minced garlic along with canned tomatoes; let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavor profile.
Step 5: Incorporate Orzo and Broth
Add orzo pasta and low-sodium beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 10-12 minutes until orzo is cooked through.
Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Seasoning
Finally, stir in fresh spinach along with Italian seasoning until spinach wilts, which should take about 1 minute.
Enjoy your hearty Ground Beef Orzo!
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo
Serving Ground Beef Orzo is a delightful experience, as this dish is not only filling but also versatile. You can enhance its presentation and flavor with various sides and garnishes.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving for a rich, cheesy flavor.
Pair with a Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the orzo.
- Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad adds a creamy element that balances the dish beautifully.
Add Extra Veggies
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted seasonal vegetables to add depth and nutrition.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread on the side provides a satisfying texture contrast.
How to Perfect Ground Beef Orzo
To achieve the best version of Ground Beef Orzo, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Select fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef for richer flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; feel free to add more herbs or spices to suit your palate.
- Cook Orzo Al Dente: Ensure the orzo is slightly firm when you remove it from heat for the best texture.
- Incorporate Broth Gradually: Add broth little by little to control consistency; you can adjust it based on how soupy you prefer your dish.
- Experiment with Greens: Try different greens like kale or Swiss chard for varied textures and nutrients.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors right before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Orzo
Complement your Ground Beef Orzo with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into the savory sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious green element that pairs well with the richness of the orzo.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a refreshing side.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb alternative while adding extra vegetables to your plate.
- Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a cool contrast to the warm orzo dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking Ground Beef Orzo. Here are some common errors and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the seasoning: Properly seasoning your ground beef is key. Always add salt and pepper during cooking for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the orzo: Orzo can become mushy if cooked too long. Keep an eye on it and taste for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
- Neglecting to prep ingredients: Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process smoother. Chop onions and mince garlic beforehand.
- Using low-quality broth: The broth contributes greatly to the dish’s flavor. Opt for a low-sodium option, or make your own for better results.
- Not adjusting for personal taste: Feel free to customize your dish! Add extra herbs, spices, or even different proteins like turkey or chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Ground Beef Orzo
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Ground Beef Orzo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warmed through, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it appears dry, stirring until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Ground Beef Orzo.
Can I use other types of meat in Ground Beef Orzo?
Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without compromising taste.
How do I enhance the flavor of my Ground Beef Orzo?
Adding spices like paprika or fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile significantly. A splash of lemon juice just before serving also brightens it up!
What vegetables can I add to Ground Beef Orzo?
You can include a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Is Ground Beef Orzo suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
How do I know when the orzo is cooked properly?
Taste the orzo around the 10-minute mark; it should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Orzo is not only cozy and delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to various tastes. Whether you want to switch proteins or add extra veggies, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Give it a try!
Ground Beef Orzo
Ground Beef Orzo is an inviting and flavorful dish that combines tender orzo pasta with seasoned ground beef in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this one-pot meal offers a delightful harmony of tastes and textures. Packed with protein and fresh spinach, it’s a nutritious option that can be easily customized to suit your family’s preferences. In just 30 minutes, you can create a hearty dinner that will impress both family and guests alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned (6-8 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and canned tomatoes; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add orzo pasta and beef broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 10-12 minutes until orzo is cooked through.
- Finally, mix in fresh spinach and Italian seasoning until spinach wilts (about 1 minute).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg