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A delicious plate of Ground Beef Orzo is shown as a featured image for the recipe.

Easy Ground Beef Orzo

This Easy Ground Beef Orzo recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender orzo pasta is combined with savory ground beef in a rich tomato sauce, creating a satisfying and customizable dish that's ready in under an hour.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 375
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 recommended
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped optional
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish optional
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish optional
  • Red pepper flakes, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth (or water) into the sauce.
  8. Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more broth or water if needed to prevent dryness.
  9. Remove from heat and let stand for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Notes

For best results, use 80/20 ground beef for flavor and moisture. Don't overcook the orzo; cook until al dente. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. This dish can be made ahead and reheated; flavors improve over time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding broth or water if needed. Variations include adding vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Stir in mozzarella or ricotta cheese for a creamy twist. Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and lemon juice for a Mediterranean flavor. Make it creamy with sour cream or Greek yogurt.