I found this Ground Beef Orzo recipe while scrolling through Pinterest one quiet evening — one of those moments when you’re just looking for a little inspiration and end up saving way too many dinner ideas. This one immediately caught my eye because it looked cozy, simple, and full of flavor — the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. When I finally made it, I added my own little touches to bring out the richness and make it even heartier. It turned out perfectly — creamy, savory, and comforting in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Family-friendly: With its savory flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and each other’s company. Customizable: Feel free to switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Delicious flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delicious Ground Beef Orzo dish. These items are easy to find and will come together beautifully in your kitchen.
For the Main Dish
1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup orzo pasta
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens)
1 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme)
Variations
One of the best things about Ground Beef Orzo is how flexible it is. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun variations.
Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
Add some heat: Spice things up by adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Go vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based version.
Boost the greens: Toss in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to add color and nutrients.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Fresh ingredients are key to bringing out all those wonderful flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes). This enhances sweetness and adds depth to your sauce.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned (6–8 minutes). Browning locks in flavor and gives you that nice texture.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Stir in minced garlic and canned tomatoes; simmer for 2–3 minutes. The garlic infuses its aroma into the meat while the tomatoes create a delicious base.
Step 5: Cook the Orzo
Add orzo pasta and beef broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 10–12 minutes. Cooking everything together allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the orzo cooks perfectly.
Step 6: Finish with Spinach
Finally, stir in fresh spinach and Italian seasoning until spinach wilts (about 1 minute). This step adds color and nutrients.
And there you have it — a comforting serving of Ground Beef Orzo that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.
Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Orzo
Use quality beef: Lean beef makes the dish healthier and more flavorful. Grass-fed options add richness.
Don’t rush the sauté: Taking your time to cook onions until translucent brings sweetness and depth.
Add extra veggies: Bell peppers or zucchini add nutrition and texture.
Experiment with spices: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Let it rest: Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving so flavors meld and the sauce thickens.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo
Serving your Ground Beef Orzo can be just as fun as cooking it.
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or basil for brightness.
Grated Parmesan or a dairy-free alternative for creaminess.
A sprinkle of lemon zest for freshness.
Side Dishes
Garlic bread for soaking up sauce.
Mixed green salad with vinaigrette for balance.
Roasted or steamed vegetables for extra color and nutrients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Ground Beef Orzo is great for meal prep and easy reheating during busy weeks.
Storing Leftovers
Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate up to 3 days.
Freezing
Cool before freezing. Portion into freezer-safe containers, label, and store up to 2 months.
Reheating
Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway.
FAQs
Can I customize my Ground Beef Orzo recipe?
Yes. Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken, or add spices like paprika or herbs for flavor variety.
How do I store leftover Ground Beef Orzo?
Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Orzo?
Absolutely. Store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with Ground Beef Orzo?
It’s perfect alone or paired with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Orzo is the perfect balance of comfort and simplicity. This one-pot meal offers rich flavor, hearty texture, and endless flexibility. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish guarantees satisfaction. Enjoy every bite — and don’t be surprised when it becomes your new weeknight favorite!
Ground Beef Orzo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, ~1 minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with herbs, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Add the orzo pasta. Reduce heat to medium‑low, stir, cover partially, and simmer for about 10–12 minutes, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If using spinach or greens, stir them in during the last minute so they wilt. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as desired.
- Remove from heat and let sit a minute before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) or a sprinkle of grated cheese for extra flavor.