Irresistible Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights Recipe

Introduction

This Irresistible Ground Beef Orzo recipe is perfect for cozy nights when you crave something comforting and flavorful. Combining tender orzo pasta with savory ground beef and a rich tomato broth, it’s a simple one-pan meal that comes together quickly.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Step 2: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Step 3: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and Italian seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Pour in the broth and add the rinsed orzo pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender. Stir halfway through cooking.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the dish is creamy and well combined.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving.
• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers during the simmering step for added nutrition.
• If you prefer a saucier dish, add an extra half cup of broth during cooking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shell pasta can be substituted, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Irresistible Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 124 reviews

This Irresistible Ground Beef Orzo recipe is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cozy nights. Featuring tender orzo pasta simmered with savory ground beef, aromatic onions, garlic, and a rich blend of tomato paste and Italian seasoning, it delivers a satisfying meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop. Finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this recipe offers a creamy, flavorful one-pot dinner that’s both simple and delicious.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their fragrance.
2. Cook Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks for 5-7 minutes until fully browned. Drain any excess grease if necessary to keep the dish from becoming oily.
3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices and tomato paste to become fragrant and well incorporated.
4. Simmer Orzo: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and add the rinsed orzo pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy, cohesive mixture that binds the dish together.

Notes

• Rinse orzo before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• If using vegetable broth, choose a rich, flavorful one to complement the beef taste.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper at the end to taste.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Add a handful of fresh parsley or basil on top for a bright, fresh garnish if desired.

Keywords: ground beef orzo, one pot meal, easy dinner, comfort food, creamy orzo recipe, quick ground beef recipe