Introduction
Tired of complicated weeknight dinners? This One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet is your new best friend! We’re transforming humble ground beef and orzo into a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready to ditch the takeout menus and impress your family with this easy, delicious recipe!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly simple, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and cleans up in a snap (one pot, people!). The combination of savory ground beef, tender orzo, and vibrant veggies creates a perfect flavor balance that everyone will love. Plus, it’s super adaptable – feel free to swap in your favorite veggies!
Key Ingredients
- 🥩 1 lb ground beef
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🫑 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 🍅 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌾 1 cup orzo pasta
- 💧 2 cups beef broth
- 🧀 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ In a large oven-safe skillet (or Dutch oven), brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2️⃣ Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer.
4️⃣ Add the orzo and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5️⃣ Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
6️⃣ Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, try browning the ground beef with a tablespoon of tomato paste before adding the vegetables.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, feel free to use Italian seasoning instead.
- Don’t overcook the orzo! It should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.
Heat Control
Using medium-high heat for browning the beef ensures a nice sear, while low heat for simmering prevents burning and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer throughout the cooking process.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe is primarily focused on a comforting, tender texture, you can add a crunch factor by topping with some fresh parsley or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For even faster cooking, use pre-chopped onions and bell peppers.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth of flavor.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish isn’t typically gifted, but if you’re making a large batch for a potluck, you could present it in a beautiful oven-safe casserole dish.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Southwestern: Add a diced jalapeño pepper, a teaspoon of chili powder, and some cumin. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.
🌟 Mediterranean Twist: Substitute ground lamb for beef, add chopped Kalamata olives and feta cheese, and use dried mint instead of oregano and basil.
🌟 Mushroom Medley: Add a cup of sliced mushrooms along with the onions and peppers for an earthy flavor boost.
🌟 Creamy Tomato: Stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Troubleshooting
- Orzo is too dry: Add a little more beef broth while simmering.
- Orzo is too mushy: Reduce the cooking time slightly next time.
- The sauce is too watery: Increase the heat slightly towards the end of cooking to reduce the liquid.
FAQ
- Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? While orzo works best in this recipe due to its small size, you could try other small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the orzo just before serving to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly? While not ideal, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 2 months. The texture might change slightly after freezing.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet is a true weeknight lifesaver! We hope you enjoy this simple, delicious, and family-friendly recipe. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us – we’d love to see your culinary masterpieces! Happy cooking!
One-Pot Beef & Orzo: Family Dinner Done Right
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring tender beef and flavorful orzo pasta, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and ground beef to the pot. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add the orzo pasta to the pot. Reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine when browning the beef.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.