If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together in a snap yet feels homemade and hearty, this Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s that perfect mix of savory ground beef, tender orzo pasta soaking up rich tomato sauce and broth, all seasoned just right with Italian herbs. The creamy finish of freshly grated parmesan cheese binds everything together, making each bite utterly satisfying and filling. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this skillet dish is as simple as it is delicious, delivering warmth and flavor in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a key role in balancing flavors and textures, turning pantry staples into a comforting meal you’ll crave again and again.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps brown the beef evenly without sticking.
- Ground beef (85/15 or 90/10): The heart of the dish, providing savory depth and satisfying protein.
- Onion, diced: Brings a sweet, aromatic base that softens during sautéing.
- Garlic, finely minced: Infuses the skillet with a warm, fragrant punch of flavor.
- Uncooked orzo: This tiny pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all the yummy juices.
- Tomato sauce: Gives the dish a rich, tangy body that complements the beef perfectly.
- Beef broth: Adds moisture and intensifies the meaty flavor while cooking the orzo.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that elevates the taste with classic Mediterranean notes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer and bringing out the natural flavors.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Goes in at the end for a creamy, savory finish that ties the dish together beautifully.
How to Make Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks. Patience here is key because a nice brown crust adds incredible flavor—no pink bits should remain before you move on.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Once the beef is browned and fragrant, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir them around and let the mixture cook for about 3 minutes until the onions soften and their sweetness comes through. This step is where the dish begins to build its rich foundational flavors.
Step 3: Add the Orzo
Next, stir in the uncooked orzo, mixing it well with the beef and onions. This little pasta absorbs all those cozy flavors as it cooks, so making sure it’s evenly coated is important for even taste and texture throughout the skillet.
Step 4: Add Liquids & Seasonings
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, then sprinkle in your Italian seasoning along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly. This combination will simmer gently to allow the orzo to soak up the liquid while the seasonings meld into a delicious sauce.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the entire skillet to a boil, then immediately lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want the orzo to absorb most of the liquid but keep the mixture saucy and tender—not dry.
Step 6: Add Parmesan
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until the mixture is creamy and smooth. The cheese adds not only richness but also a lovely umami boost that pulls everything together perfectly. Feel free to sprinkle a bit more on top when serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Extra parmesan cheese is always a winner here, adding a salty, nutty crunch on top. You can also sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and brightness that cuts through the rich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for added texture and freshness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf also make incredible companions to mop up the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in rustic cast iron skillets right at the table for a cozy, family-style feel. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of sautéed spinach or nestle it alongside roasted peppers for an irresistible Mediterranean-inspired plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners after a busy day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much flavor or texture, so feel free to batch cook and keep some tucked away for emergencies.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Microwaving works too, but stirring occasionally will help keep it creamy and evenly warmed.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. Just keep in mind turkey cooks faster and can dry out easier, so watch your cooking times carefully to keep it juicy.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. However, you can find orzo substitutes made from rice or corn that work well in this dish if you need a gluten-free option.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can boost the nutrition and add extra flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions or stir them in during the simmering step to soften.
What if I don’t have tomato sauce on hand?
Tomato sauce brings a rich base to the skillet, but you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or even tomato paste diluted with a little water. Just adjust the seasoning to balance the acidity and flavor.
How can I make it spicier?
To kick up the heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the Italian seasoning, or serve with a dash of hot sauce at the table. Fresh chopped jalapeños stirred in with the onions also do the trick nicely.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that’s fuss-free but never boring, the Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe delivers that perfect combo of hearty, comforting, and downright delicious. It’s the kind of meal you’ll find yourself making on repeat because it warms you up and fills you up with every bite. Trust me, once you try it, it will be one of those “why didn’t I make this sooner” recipes!
Print
Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A quick and hearty Ground Beef and Orzo recipe combining savory browned beef, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, enhanced with Italian seasoning and creamy parmesan. Ready in just 25 minutes, it makes a perfect comforting meal for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (454 g) ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 cup (150 g) uncooked orzo
- 15 ounces (425 g) tomato sauce
- 2 cups (473 ml) beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing
- ⅓ cup (33 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and break it up into small pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until browned thoroughly and no pink remains.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté with occasional stirring until the onions become soft and the mixture is fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta, evenly mixing it into the beef and onion mixture to lightly coat the pasta with the flavors.
- Add Liquids & Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything thoroughly to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally and cook for about 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed but the orzo remains saucy and tender, allowing flavors to meld.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture. Add more parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use ground beef with 85/15 or 90/10 fat ratio for best flavor and texture.
- Stir frequently during simmer to prevent orzo from sticking to the pan.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, especially salt and pepper.
- Extra parmesan cheese can be added as garnish when serving.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
