Print

Easy Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Perfect Weeknight Meals

ground beef orzo - featured image

A quick and comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or oregano)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned—about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir well and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve warm, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

[‘Use fresh garlic and onion for maximum flavor.’, ‘Take your time browning the beef for a deeper flavor.’, ‘Check the orzo frequently to avoid overcooking.’, ‘Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.’, ‘If the sauce starts to dry out before the orzo is done, add a splash of broth or water.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, orzo, one-pot meal, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, quick dinner