Easy Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Weeknights

I’ve always loved recipes that are both comforting and quick to make, especially on busy weeknights. One evening, after a long day of baking and preparing desserts, I wanted something hearty but not complicated. That’s when I created this Easy Ground Beef Orzo. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug, satisfying and flavorful, yet comes together in less than 30 minutes. I remember stirring the golden orzo as the savory ground beef cooked and realizing I had discovered a new weeknight favorite.

You will love this recipe because it balances simplicity with flavor. Every bite is tender, hearty, and full of seasoning, making it appealing to both adults and children. The combination of ground beef, tender orzo, and fresh vegetables is so satisfying, yet it doesn’t weigh you down. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a small gathering, this recipe delivers comfort without unnecessary effort.

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can add extra vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, or sprinkle with your favorite cheese to make it richer. It works perfectly as a main course or even as a side for a larger meal. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches the next day.

Another advantage is affordability. With just a few basic ingredients—ground beef, orzo, onions, garlic, and pantry spices—you can create a wholesome, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a delicious dinner without breaking the bank or running to multiple stores for specialty items.

Ingredients for this recipe:

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

• 2 cups beef broth or water with seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Optional: grated cheese, chopped parsley for garnish

This recipe brings together minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and ease of preparation. It’s a weeknight solution that makes cooking stress-free and enjoyable.

How to Prepare Easy Ground Beef Orzo

Preparing this Easy Ground Beef Orzo is straightforward, quick, and satisfying. The process is designed to be simple enough for weeknights yet versatile enough to adapt to your taste. By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a flavorful, hearty meal ready in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Measure out the orzo, broth, and spices. Having everything ready before you begin cooking ensures a smooth process and prevents overcooking any ingredient.

2. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to warm until shimmering. This step ensures that the onion and garlic will cook evenly without sticking.

3. Cook the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onions to the pan. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure it doesn’t burn. Transitioning from onions to garlic carefully builds the base of flavor for the dish.

4. Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until it is fully browned and no pink remains. Remember to season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano while the beef cooks, which helps the flavors penetrate the meat.

5. Add diced tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and combine them thoroughly with the beef. Allow the mixture to cook for 2–3 minutes so the tomatoes release their natural juices. This step adds a subtle acidity and depth to the overall flavor profile.

6. Add orzo and broth: Pour in the orzo pasta and beef broth. Stir well to ensure that the orzo is evenly distributed in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Using broth instead of water enhances flavor, creating a richer and more savory dish.

7. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the orzo cook for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and check that the orzo absorbs the liquid evenly. The pasta should be tender yet slightly firm, providing the perfect texture.

8. Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Adding a little more salt, pepper, or paprika at this stage enhances the depth of flavor. Transitioning from cooking to seasoning ensures the dish remains balanced.

9. Optional additions: You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach in the last 3–4 minutes of cooking. For extra richness, sprinkle grated cheese on top and cover briefly until it melts. This makes the dish flexible for various tastes and dietary preferences.

10. Serve: Remove from heat and let it sit for 2 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or your preferred herbs.

Quick and Easy Tips

• Use pre-chopped onions or garlic paste to save time on hectic weeknights.

• Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth if desired; the dish still retains its savory flavor.

• Leftovers can be reheated in a skillet or microwave, maintaining texture and taste.

Customizable Options

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can increase protein by adding cooked chicken or turkey, incorporate more vegetables for a nutrient boost, or season with extra spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a bolder flavor. The versatility ensures it satisfies a variety of palates and dietary needs.

Popular with Many People

This dish is a crowd-pleaser because it combines simple ingredients with familiar, comforting flavors. The combination of tender ground beef, flavorful orzo, and well-seasoned broth appeals to both kids and adults. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even casual gatherings where a hearty, satisfying meal is desired.

By following these detailed steps, you’ll achieve a delicious, well-balanced dish that is both quick to prepare and highly adaptable. This Easy Ground Beef Orzo recipe is ideal for anyone looking for comfort food without complicated preparation.

Easy Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Weeknights

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This Easy Ground Beef Orzo recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender orzo, savory ground beef, and flavorful seasonings, this dish is satisfying, versatile, and budget-friendly.

• Author: Lura Skye
• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 20
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 2 cups beef broth or water with seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: grated cheese, chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Chop the onion and mince the garlic; measure out all ingredients.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Sauté onions for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent, then add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
4. Add ground beef, break it apart, and cook 5–7 minutes until fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.
6. Add orzo and beef broth; stir and bring to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Optional: add vegetables or sprinkle grated cheese on top, cover briefly to melt.
10. Remove from heat, let sit 2 minutes, and serve garnished with parsley.

Notes

Pre-chopped onions or garlic paste can save time.

Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth if desired.

Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for future meals.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta type.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

3. Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The flavor will still be hearty and satisfying.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

5. How can I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions or mix in a small amount of hot paprika. You can also serve with a spicy sauce or sprinkle chili powder over the top.

6. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely. Bell peppers, spinach, peas, or zucchini can be added. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to retain texture and freshness.