Let’s talk about easy, one-pan meals that make life simpler—and tastier! This Ground Beef Orzo is one of those weeknight wonders you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. It’s comforting, hearty, and packed with flavor, yet comes together in just about 30 minutes.
Think of it as a cross between a simple pasta dish and a cozy skillet dinner. The orzo cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up all that rich tomato flavor along with the savory, seasoned ground beef. No draining pasta, no extra pots—just one pan, big flavors, and a full belly!
What Is Ground Beef Orzo?
Ground Beef Orzo is a quick and easy skillet meal that combines browned ground beef, tender orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, and a savory broth. Everything cooks together in one pan, so the orzo absorbs all the flavors from the meat and sauce. It’s like a cozy Italian-inspired risotto but without the stirring!
This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need dinner fast but still want something warm, filling, and made from scratch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pan = less mess!
- Ready in 30 minutes or less
- Family-friendly flavors everyone loves
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Easily customizable with veggies or spices
What Does It Taste Like?
This Ground Beef Orzo is savory, slightly tangy from the tomatoes, and loaded with the tender texture of orzo pasta that’s been simmered right in the sauce. The ground beef gives it a rich, hearty bite, while fresh parsley or basil on top adds a pop of freshness. It’s simple but incredibly satisfying—comfort food without the fuss.
Benefits of Ground Beef Orzo
- Quick cleanup thanks to one pan
- No boiling pasta separately—the orzo cooks right in the sauce
- Perfect for leftovers—tastes even better the next day
- Easily adaptable—add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini
- Meal-prep friendly—make ahead and reheat for easy lunches
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Ground Beef Orzo:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for topping
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option
- Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or chili powder
- Swap diced tomatoes for crushed tomatoes if you prefer a saucier texture
- Make it cheesy by stirring in mozzarella or Parmesan at the end
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add orzo and tomato paste: Stir in the orzo and tomato paste, letting it toast slightly for about 1 minute.
- Pour in liquids: Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Orzo
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A crisp green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- A side of tzatziki or yogurt for a Mediterranean touch
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Orzo
- Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking
- Use high-quality broth for the best flavor
- Keep it covered while simmering so the orzo cooks evenly
- Add more broth if the mixture gets too thick
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for perfect balance
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rice instead of orzo?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid—rice takes longer and requires more broth.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep and reheats well.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not unless you add chili flakes. Keep it mild or turn up the heat based on your preference!
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Orzo is one of those simple dinners you’ll find yourself making on repeat. It’s cozy, comforting, and comes together with pantry staples in one pan. Whether you serve it for a busy weeknight or pack it for lunch, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate, makes 4)
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
Ground Beef Orzo
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Ground Beef Orzo is a quick and hearty one-pan meal combining savory ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and diced tomatoes. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner—comforting, easy to make, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– ½ tsp salt
– ¼ tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
– Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Stir in diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the orzo and tomato paste. Stir to coat the orzo and toast it lightly for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat. Fluff the orzo with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley or basil.
7. Serve warm, with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
– Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if preferred.
– Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
– Use crushed tomatoes for a saucier texture.
– Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Keywords: ground beef orzo, one-pan ground beef recipe, beef orzo skillet, easy orzo dinner, quick weeknight meals, orzo with ground beef