Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights 🥘🍝🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for dinner ideas for 16 people or looking for a comfort ground beef recipe that is quick, easy, and budget-friendly, this savory ground beef orzo recipe is your perfect solution. Combining the heartiness of ground meat with the tender texture of orzo, this one pot meal provides a filling, flavorful dish ideal for cozy weeknights. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish’s simplicity and deliciousness make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Discover how to create a quick easy weekday dinner with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, elevating your routine dinner menu.
2. Ingredients Needed for Your Savory Ground Beef Orzo
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Savory Ground Beef Orzo
3.1. Prepare Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before starting—this makes the cooking process smooth. Mince the garlic, dice the onion, and measure out the broth and seasonings.
3.2. Sauté the Ground Beef
Heat the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker or a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then cook the ground beef until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper during this step.
3.3. Add Aromatics and Tomatoes
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and let it simmer for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
3.4. Cook the Orzo
Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the orzo pasta, reduce heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For a creative twist, explore an orzo lasagna style for a different presentation.
3.5. Final Touches and Serving
Once cooked, remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy nights.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Savory Ground Beef Orzo
Store leftovers in airtight containers like the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture. This dish stores well and makes excellent make-ahead meals.
5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal
Pair your savory ground beef orzo with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner experience. For a healthier twist, add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also experiment by turning leftovers into an Asian-inspired ground beef bowl. For more hearty dinner ideas for 16 people, consider preparing a large casserole version for gatherings.
6. Why This Ground Meat One Pot Meal Is a Top Choice
This dish exemplifies the benefits of one pot casseroles, offering quick preparation, minimal ingredients, and easy cleanup. Its versatility and rich flavors make it a go-to for busy weeknights, and it’s an excellent example of comfort ground beef recipes that everyone loves.
7. Related Recipes and Inspiration
Looking for more amazing good ground beef recipes? Check out this slow cooker butter chicken or try an easy autumn sausage pasta dish. For pasta lovers, explore our chicken and broccoli pasta recipe which complements this hearty meal.
8. FAQs About Savory Ground Beef Orzo
Q: Can I make this ground beef orzo recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prepping. Prepare it in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully on the stovetop or microwave. For convenient cooking, consider using the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker for hands-off meal prep.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! The mild flavors and simple ingredients make it perfect for children. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
Q: Can I substitute the orzo with rice or quinoa?
Definitely. Rice or quinoa can be used as alternatives, but cooking times and liquid ratios will vary. Adjust accordingly for best results.
9. Conclusion
This savory ground beef orzo recipe is an excellent example of a comfort food that’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for cozy nights. Its adaptability makes it a must-try for those seeking ground meat one pot meals or a versatile dinner option. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish guarantees satisfaction, minimal cleanup, and a hearty flavor that everyone will love. Give it a try tonight and enjoy an effortless, delicious meal that embodies the essence of easy, cheap oven dinners and warm, comforting dishes.
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Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Enjoy a hearty and flavorful Savory Ground Beef Orzo, perfect for cozy nights and quick weeknight dinners. This one-pot meal combines tender ground beef, al dente orzo, and aromatic seasonings for a comforting dish everyone will love. Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding family or friends, this recipe is a must-try for pasta and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients: mince garlic, dice onion, measure broth and seasonings.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned, breaking apart with a spoon, and season with salt and pepper.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Stir in orzo pasta, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For added flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh herbs before serving.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, or add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of broth to retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
