Name: Delicious Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Everyone
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 cups beef broth or stock; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish); 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

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This ground beef orzo recipe is a warm, hearty, and comforting one-pan meal that brings together tender pasta, seasoned beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a satisfying dish that’s both easy to prepare and versatile enough to feed a hungry family or serve as a meal prep option for the week. Delicious Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Everyone

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish comes together quickly with simple pantry staples. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. The ground beef adds protein, the orzo soaks up all the delicious flavors, and the whole meal is cooked in one skillet, which means less cleanup. Whether I want something cozy for dinner or a make-ahead lunch, this recipe always hits the mark.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
orzo pasta
onion
garlic
diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
tomato paste
beef broth or stock
olive oil
salt
black pepper
dried oregano
paprika
red pepper flakes (optional)
fresh parsley or basil for garnish
grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent.
I stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
I add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon, cooking until browned.
I season the beef with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
I stir in tomato paste and cook for a couple of minutes to deepen the flavor.
I pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
I add the dry orzo, mix well, and cover the pan, letting it cook on low heat for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened, I remove the skillet from heat.
I finish by garnishing with fresh herbs and grated parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes approximately 30–35 minutes from start to finish. That includes prep and cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Variations

I like switching things up depending on what I have on hand. Sometimes I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. I’ve also stirred in spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for extra greens. For a creamier twist, I occasionally add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end. The base is so flexible it adapts easily to whatever I’m craving.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I add a splash of broth or water and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. It also freezes well for up to 2 months, although the texture of the orzo may soften a bit upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use rice instead of orzo?

Yes, I can substitute rice, but I adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly since rice takes longer to cook and may require more broth.

What type of ground beef is best?

I usually go with lean ground beef (around 85% lean) to keep the dish flavorful without too much grease. I drain excess fat if necessary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often prepare it ahead and store it for easy lunches or dinners. It reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is not gluten-free, but there are gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn that work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

I make sure to stir the orzo occasionally during cooking and keep an eye on the liquid level. Adding a bit more broth if needed helps avoid sticking.

Conclusion

This ground beef orzo recipe is my go-to when I want a cozy, satisfying meal without too much fuss. It’s flavorful, adaptable, and easy to pull together on a weeknight. I can dress it up or down, make it spicy or mild, and count on everyone enjoying a bowl. Give it a try and make it your own.