Comforting Ground Beef Orzo Dinner

When looking for the ultimate weeknight comfort, this Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is the perfect solution. Imagine a bubbling skillet filled with savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and tender orzo all simmered together in a rich tomato broth. Each mouthful bursts with the flavor of juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a salty sprinkle of Parmesan, making it a meal that is both effortlessly satisfying and deeply warming.

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This recipe is designed for busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and simple pantry staples, you can have a hearty dinner on the table in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Peppers

Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper; sauté for an additional 2–3 minutes until the bell pepper softens.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Increase heat to medium-high. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Combine Base Ingredients

Add diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: First Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Cook the Orzo

Add orzo pasta, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 10: Final Additions

Fold in frozen peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 11: Add Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, remember to stir the orzo occasionally while it is simmering with the lid on; this prevents the small pasta grains from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. If you prefer a leaner dish, be sure to drain the excess fat thoroughly after browning the ground beef.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this dinner by substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option. For an extra nutritional boost, stir in vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms during the simmering process. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to vary the flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this dish piping hot straight from the skillet. A final garnish of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness. For those who enjoy extra indulgence, you can stir in a splash of cream or extra shredded cheese right before serving to create a silkier texture.

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Whether you are feeding a hungry family or looking for a reliable meal prep option, this Ground Beef Orzo Dinner delivers comfort in every bite. It is a versatile, one-pan wonder that proves you don't need a long list of ingredients to create something truly delicious.

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Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option or simply want to vary the flavor profile of the dish. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure it's cooked through.

→ What other vegetables can I add to this skillet?

This skillet meal is very versatile. Consider adding vegetables like fresh spinach (stirred in at the end), sliced zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms along with the bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Stir them in during the simmering stage.

→ How can I make this dish creamier?

For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream, a spoonful of cream cheese, or some shredded mozzarella along with the Parmesan at the very end of cooking. This will enhance richness and create a luscious consistency.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, this dish reheats well. You can prepare it completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems too dry.

→ What kind of orzo should I use for this meal?

Standard orzo pasta, which is a small, rice-shaped pasta, works perfectly for this dish. No need for any special varieties; simply follow the general cooking time guidelines, though it will cook directly in the skillet here, absorbing the broth.