Delicious, comforting, and incredibly easy to whip up, this Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe combines hearty ground beef with tender orzo pasta in a savory tomato-infused broth that warms you right down to your toes. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together protein, pasta, and vibrant herbs for a wonderfully satisfying meal any night of the week. Whether you’re new to skillet cooking or looking for a go-to recipe to impress without fuss, this dish hits all the right notes with its rich flavors and pleasing textures all in one pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but they each play an important role in making this Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe shine. From the savory depth of ground beef to the fresh brightness of parsley, every component adds flavor, texture, or color to create a perfectly balanced dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein that forms the meaty base of the recipe, giving it richness and depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a touch of smoothness and helps brown the beef evenly without sticking.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and enhances the savory layers when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A small but mighty flavor booster that fills the skillet with a fragrant aroma.
- 2 cups orzo pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the tasty juices beautifully.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and tomato freshness that lifts the dish and prevents it from feeling too heavy.
- 1 cup beef broth: Provides savory liquid to cook the orzo and infuses the dish with depth and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings subtle herbal notes that complement the tomato and beef flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a classic Italian flavor that rounds out the herb mix deliciously.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the other ingredients.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: A bright, fresh pop of color and mild herbal flavor that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This step builds a rich meaty base, and browning the beef properly locks in flavor and texture that you’ll love in every bite.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet. Keep the heat on medium and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant. These aromatics add a sweet and savory foundation that complements the ground beef beautifully.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Herbs
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, followed by the beef broth. Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano, then season generously with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This combination forms the saucy heart of the skillet that will flavor every orzo grain as it cooks.
Step 4: Stir in Orzo and Simmer
Once your tomato-beef broth is simmering, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine everything evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally. The orzo will absorb the flavorful liquid and swell up tenderly, soaking in all those meaty, herby notes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
When the orzo is fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. This final touch adds a burst of color and freshness that makes the dish even more inviting. Serve it warm right from the skillet for an effortless, hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish here, giving a pop of vibrant green and a mild herbal brightness. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt if you want to add creaminess and a little extra savory punch.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal is satisfying on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider a crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or warm pita can also complement the dish by adding a toasty, comforting element to scoop up every last bit.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or gathering, serve the Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe in a large cast-iron skillet right at the table to show off its rustic charm. You can also portion it into individual bowls stacked with extra garnishes like sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elevated look and flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day. Just make sure to cool it down before sealing to keep it fresh.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe for a longer time, freezing is a great option. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for quick future meals.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the orzo and prevent it from drying out. Microwaving works too—just heat in short bursts, stirring in between for even warming and to keep the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even acini di pepe can work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so check the pasta for doneness as you go.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe is fantastic for meal prep. It stores well and reheats easily, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or packed lunches with minimal effort.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can be sautéed along with the onions or stirred in during simmering to increase the veggie content and add extra color and flavor.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild by default, but you can spice it up by adding crushed red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a splash of hot sauce during cooking. Adjust the heat to your taste to create your perfect skillet.
What can I substitute for beef broth if I don’t have any?
You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a bit of added seasoning as a quick substitute. Broths add more flavor, so try to match the savory notes with some extra herbs or a splash of soy sauce if using water.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a one-pan meal that delivers bold flavors, ease, and comfort all at once, and this Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe does just that. It’s perfect for busy nights, feeding a hungry crowd, or whenever you want a warm, satisfying dish without hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Print
Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Ground Beef Orzo recipe is a hearty and comforting one-pan dish combining savory ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and a flavorful blend of tomatoes, herbs, and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it delivers a balanced meal packed with robust Mediterranean-inspired flavors, ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking and no large clumps.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer to meld the flavors together.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and stir well to combine everything. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, creating a creamy texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm as a satisfying main course.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauté step.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content better.
- Vegetarian option: omit ground beef and use vegetable broth instead.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the orzo to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
