Name: Ground Beef and Orzo One-Pot Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound (454 g) ground beef, 85/15 or 90/10; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 cup (150 g) uncooked orzo; 15 ounces (425 g) tomato sauce; 2 cups (473 ml) beef broth; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; ⅓ cup (33 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 63 reviews

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together in just one pot and in less than 30 minutes, the Ground Beef and Orzo One-Pot Recipe is an absolute must-try. This hearty meal combines tender ground beef with petite, pasta-like orzo simmered in a savory tomato and beef broth sauce, making every bite rich, cozy, and packed with wonderful texture and warmth. It’s a perfect weeknight option that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan sits on a white marbled surface filled with a thick sauce of bright red tomato, light brown cooked ground meat, and small chunks of pale onion spread evenly throughout. Sprinkled green herbs rest on top of the sauce in several small piles, and a wooden spoon with a rounded edge rests on the right side of the pan, partially covered in sauce. The mixture looks rich and textured with visible bits of ingredients floating in the bright tomato base. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple but essential ingredients come together effortlessly to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a key role in balancing the savory, comforting notes of this one-pot miracle.

Olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing and adds a subtle fruity richness to the dish.
Ground beef (85/15 or 90/10): Adds hearty protein and a satisfying, savory depth to the recipe.
Onion: Brings sweetness and texture, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with its unmistakable fragrant aroma, elevating every bite.
Uncooked orzo: A tiny pasta that cooks beautifully alongside the beef, absorbing all those lovely flavors.
Tomato sauce: Offers a rich, tangy base that complements the savory meat perfectly.
Beef broth: Adds moisture and deep, meaty undertones, giving the orzo its velvety finish.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a subtle herbaceous kick and warmth.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that tie everything together and enhance all ingredients.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds creamy, nutty notes and a luscious final touch.

How to Make Ground Beef and Orzo One-Pot Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the ground beef, breaking it up with your spatula. Cook until no pink remains and the beef is beautifully browned. This step builds the foundation of savory flavor that the entire dish rests on, so let that beef develop a nice crust for richness.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic right into the beef. Let them cook together until the onions soften and the kitchen fills with the warm, aromatic scent of garlic — about three minutes. This combo adds layers of sweetness and gentle pungency, making each bite more complex and inviting.

Step 3: Mix in the Orzo

Now, add the uncooked orzo straight into the pot and stir well to combine. The orzo starts absorbing those meaty and garlicky flavors even before the liquids go in, which is key to that deeply cohesive taste that makes this Ground Beef and Orzo One-Pot Recipe so darn good.

Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce and Broth

Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to marry the ingredients. This flavorful sauce will cook down and gently soak into the orzo, giving the dish its signature comforting, saucy texture.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer uncovered. Cook until most of the liquid has been absorbed—about 10 minutes—while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. The orzo should be tender and perfectly infused with all the savory goodness.

Step 6: Stir in Parmesan Cheese

Once cooked and off the heat, stir in the freshly grated parmesan. This final step adds creamy richness, a slightly salty tang, and a luxurious finish that turns this simple recipe into something special.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Orzo One-Pot Recipe

The dish shows two white ceramic bowls filled with a rich, reddish-brown pasta with a chunky texture, topped with small green herbs and sprinkled fine white cheese. Each bowl also holds two triangular pieces of light yellow garlic bread with green herb bits, placed on the top right side. A large silver spoon rests inside the front bowl, and the setup is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft green cloth under the spoon. There are a few fresh basil leaves scattered around for decoration photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of more grated parmesan cheese on top brings that extra cheesy touch everyone loves. Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley can brighten the dish with a pop of lively green and a hint of herbal freshness that balances the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This one-pot wonder is comforting and filling enough on its own, but if you want to add a side, a crisp green salad or garlic-roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully. A crusty loaf of bread or warm pita is also fantastic for mopping up every flavorful drop left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this dish in hollowed-out bell peppers or as a filling for stuffed tomatoes. You can even top it with a fried egg for an indulgent layered effect. It’s versatile and inviting, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This recipe holds its flavors well, making it easy to enjoy a delicious, ready-to-eat meal on busy days without sacrificing taste or quality.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Ground Beef and Orzo One-Pot Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure it cools completely before sealing, and label your container for convenience. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if it seems dry. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between, to ensure even heating and retain that lovely creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo’s small size and shape work beautifully for this recipe, small pasta shapes like couscous, acini di pepe, or small shells can be substituted. Just keep a close eye on cooking times as they may vary.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing and reheating?

Yes, the Ground Beef and Orzo One-Pot Recipe freezes and reheats very well. Just cool it completely before freezing and reheat gently to avoid drying out the pasta.

Can I swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken?

You can, though ground beef offers a richer flavor and fattier texture that helps keep this recipe moist and savory. If using leaner meats, consider adding a bit more olive oil or broth to maintain moisture.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?

This recipe is mild by default, making it family-friendly. But feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or your favorite hot sauce during cooking or at the table if you prefer a spicier kick.

What if I can’t find Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can make your own with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. A simple mix of these herbs will give you that classic Italian flavor profile for this delightful dish.

Final Thoughts

If you want a warm, satisfying, and unexpectedly easy meal, the Ground Beef and Orzo One-Pot Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s packed with comforting, bold flavors and requires minimal cleanup, making it a total winner any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to give this cozy dish a try and have it become a staple in your rotation too!