Description
This Ground Beef and Orzo recipe is a quick and comforting one-pot meal that combines savory ground beef with tender orzo pasta in a rich tomato and beef broth sauce, finished with parmesan cheese for added flavor. Perfect for a hearty dinner in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Main 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
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil and brown the beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it into small pieces using a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook together until fragrant and the onions are softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add orzo to the mixture: Stir in the uncooked orzo, mixing thoroughly with the beef, onions, and garlic to combine.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir to combine, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the orzo: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender, approximately 10 minutes. Leave a little liquid to keep the dish moist.
- Finish with parmesan cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated.
- Serve: Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use ground beef with 85/15 or 90/10 lean-to-fat ratio for best flavor and moisture.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Optional garnish of fresh basil adds a bright herbal note.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
