Ground Beef Orzo
why make this recipe
Ground Beef Orzo is a satisfying and hearty dish that combines protein and pasta in one bowl. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavors from the beef, tomatoes, and spices. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or when you want something comforting. Plus, it’s a great way to use ingredients you might already have at home.
how to make Ground Beef Orzo
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)
Directions:
- Prep your ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned (6-8 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and canned tomatoes; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add orzo and beef broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in fresh spinach and Italian seasoning until spinach wilts (about 1 minute).
how to serve Ground Beef Orzo
Serve Ground Beef Orzo hot, straight from the skillet. You can top it with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to complete your meal.
how to store Ground Beef Orzo
Store any leftover Ground Beef Orzo in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen it up.
tips to make Ground Beef Orzo
- For extra flavor, add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef if you prefer a lighter option.
- Don’t overcook the orzo; keep an eye on it to maintain a nice texture.
variation
To make it a bit different, try adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor. You can also experiment with different greens, like kale or arugula, based on what you have available.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape like couscous or small shells if you don’t have orzo.
2. Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze Ground Beef Orzo. Just make sure it cools completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce while cooking the beef for an extra kick.

Ground Beef Orzo
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and satisfying dish that combines protein and pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
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)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned (6-8 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and canned tomatoes; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add orzo and beef broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in fresh spinach and Italian seasoning until spinach wilts (about 1 minute).
Notes
For extra flavor, add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian