Savory Ground Beef Orzo – Hearty, Flavorful & One-Pan Comfort Food
This Savory Ground Beef Orzo recipe is a cozy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Tender orzo pasta simmers with seasoned ground beef, garlic, onions, and a rich tomato base, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture with bold flavor in every bite. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and ideal for meal prep. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a comforting finish that feels like home.
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Fine grater (for cheese)
- Ladle & serving bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85–90% lean)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85–90% lean)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 ½ cups beef or chicken broth (plus more if needed)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes (optional for extra sauce)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese (for finishing)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté aromatics: Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen flavor.
- Season: Sprinkle in paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat the beef.
- Add orzo & broth: Stir in the orzo pasta, then pour in broth and tomatoes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- Cook orzo: Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Add extra broth if needed.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheese. Sprinkle the rest on top, cover, and let melt.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot, family-style, straight from the skillet.
Notes
- For a creamier version, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream before adding cheese.
- Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms in the last 5 minutes for extra nutrition.
- For meal prep, portion into containers and reheat with a splash of broth to keep it moist.