Delicious Ground Beef Orzo Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ground Beef Orzo recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. The tender orzo absorbs all the savory goodness from the beef, tomatoes, and broth, while the fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both comforting and satisfying, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s customizable—add more veggies or swap out spinach for any greens you prefer!

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs

• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep Ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Sauté Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.

4. Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and canned diced tomatoes. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

5. Add Orzo and Broth: Add the orzo pasta and beef broth to the skillet. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the flavors.

6. Stir in Spinach: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 1 minute until the spinach wilts.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Greens: If you don’t have spinach, feel free to substitute with kale, arugula, or any leafy green you like.

• Cheese: For extra richness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

• Herbs: You can switch up the Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for a more aromatic touch.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks dry. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta, like penne or fusilli, as a substitute for orzo.

2. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to develop.

3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken would be great substitutes if you prefer a leaner meat option.

4. What can I use instead of beef broth?

You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water if you want a lighter flavor.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

6. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the sauce.

7. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

8. How can I make this dish richer in flavor?

To add richness, try stirring in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese after the spinach wilts.

9. Can I use canned spinach instead of fresh?

It’s best to use fresh spinach for texture and flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use canned spinach—just be sure to drain and rinse it well.

10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit any cheese and use dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, and fresh spinach, this one-pan meal will satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. Whether you stick to the recipe or make some variations, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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