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Ground Beef Orzo Recipe

Ground Beef Orzo Recipe

4.8 from 26 reviews

This Ground Beef Orzo recipe is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender orzo pasta with seasoned ground beef, aromatic garlic and onion, and a rich tomato-infused broth. Finished with creamy Parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
  2. Brown Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if needed.
  3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently to combine and release the flavors.
  4. Cook Orzo: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and add the rinsed orzo pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the mixture is creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute vegetable broth to make this recipe slightly lighter or vegetarian by substituting beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives.
  • For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of cream or milk along with the Parmesan cheese.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes along with the paprika.
  • Make sure to rinse the orzo pasta before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef orzo, one pot meal, quick dinner, Italian pasta, Parmesan beef pasta