Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This ground beef orzo recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious blend of tender ground beef, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a rich and savory sauce. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, providing a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will adore. Get ready to elevate your quick dinner ideas with this simple yet stunning dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and easy recipe!
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Orzo:
- Don't overcook the orzo: Overcooked orzo can become mushy. Follow the package directions for cooking time, and check for doneness before the full time is up.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your preference. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the onions.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a truly satisfying and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Ground Beef Orzo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Greek Ground Beef Orzo: Add crumbled feta cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Greek-inspired flavor.
- Vegetarian Orzo: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of crumbled vegetarian ground "beef" for a delicious vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35 grams
This easy ground beef orzo recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor or health. It's a great addition to your collection of best recipes and a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!