Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights
A hearty, one-pot dinner with tender orzo, savory ground beef, tomatoes, and warming spices — all simmered into a creamy skillet meal perfect for cozy nights in.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–5 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach or kale (optional)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté onion in olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes. Add diced tomatoes.
- Add orzo and beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring often.
- Stir in spinach or kale, and Parmesan if using. Cook 2–3 more minutes.
- Let rest 5 minutes off heat. Garnish and serve warm.
Notes
- Use lean beef or ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add crushed red pepper for a spicier kick.
- Leftovers keep well for 4 days in the fridge.