Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

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Why Make This Recipe

Ground Beef Orzo is one of those dishes that makes you feel cozy and satisfied after a long day. It combines the hearty goodness of lean ground beef with the quick-cooking nature of orzo, creating a meal that is not only delicious but also filling. Additionally, this recipe incorporates fresh spinach and tomatoes, providing important nutrients and fresh flavors that are often missing in busy weeknight meals. If you’ve been looking for a simple yet flavorful dish that the whole family will love, look no further!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Made with simple ingredients that you can easily find in your pantry or local grocery store, this dish comes together quickly and requires minimal cleanup. Its one-pot nature means you can have a full meal ready to serve without getting overwhelmed by complicated steps or excessive dishes. Plus, the combination of flavors creates a comforting taste that will make you want to come back for seconds.

How to Make Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

Making Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo is straightforward, and anyone can do it! Follow this simple guide to whip up a family-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients:

1 pound Lean Ground Beef
1 medium Onion (Finely chopped)
3 cloves Garlic (Minced)
1 cup Orzo Pasta
14.5 ounces Canned Diced Tomatoes
2 cups Low-Sodium Beef Broth
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
2 cups Fresh Spinach

Directions:

Brown the Beef: In a large pot or skillet, over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Allow it to brown for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it browns evenly.
Add Onion and Garlic: Once the beef is nicely browned, add in the finely chopped onion. Cook it for around 3 minutes until it starts to become tender. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices and the low-sodium beef broth. Then, add the orzo pasta and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together nicely until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. The orzo will absorb the liquid and become tender, cooking to an al dente texture.
Add Spinach: Once the orzo is done, it’s time to add the fresh spinach. Stir it in until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The vibrant green spinach not only adds color but also boosts the dish’s nutritional value.
Serve: Serve hot from the pot. This dish is often enjoyed on its own but can be topped with grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor if desired.

How to Serve Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo can be served as a complete meal on its own. It has protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from the orzo, and vitamins from the spinach and tomatoes. You might want to accompany it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices.

For those who like a little extra flavor, sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a lovely richness. If you want to spice things up, consider a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. Loading the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving gives it a garden-fresh taste.

How to Store Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

Storing ground beef orzo is simple. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze the ground beef orzo. Scoop the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or microwave.

Tips to Make Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

Here are some handy tips to enhance your cooking experience while making Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo:

Use Lean Ground Beef: Lean ground beef has less fat, which makes the dish a bit healthier and helps reduce greasy residue. If you do use a fattier ground beef, consider draining some of the fat before adding the other ingredients.
Customize the Seasoning: If you love a specific herb or spice, don’t hesitate to add it in! A bit of oregano, basil, or even a touch of paprika can elevate the flavors to your liking.
Vegetarian Option: You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust the cooking time based on the alternative you choose.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to throw in other vegetables you might have on hand such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These additions provide different flavors and textures.
Adjust Liquid for Leftovers: If you’re planning to have leftovers, keep in mind that the orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Variation

There are several fun variations of the Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo that you can explore:

Cheesy Version: Stir in a cup of shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy texture and a cheesy flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, you can add in some diced jalapeños or a tablespoon of sriracha sauce to the mix.
Mediterranean Flair: Incorporating olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or capers could give this dish a Mediterranean twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use different pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use other small pasta varieties like ditalini or small shells. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary, so adjust accordingly.

2. What can I serve with ground beef orzo?
It can be enjoyed on its own, but serving it with garlic bread or a side salad can make for a more filling meal.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat. Just note that the orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits.

4. How can I make this dish lower in sodium?
Using low-sodium broth is a great start. Additionally, opt for no-salt-added canned tomatoes and skip adding any extra salt to the recipe.

5. Is it possible to convert this recipe into a one-pot dish?
Yes! This recipe is already one-pot friendly, which means you can prepare and cook everything in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.