Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your evenings with this comforting Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe. It's a delicious blend of tender orzo pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a medley of vegetables, perfect for cozy nights at home.
This Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something hearty and satisfying. The combination of flavors makes it a family favorite!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for a satisfying meal
- Easy to prepare, making it great for weeknight dinners
- Packed with flavor from herbs and spices
A Cozy Comfort Food Classic
When the temperature drops, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Savory Ground Beef Orzo to bring comfort and joy. This dish combines the heartiness of ground beef with the delightful texture of orzo pasta, creating a satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table. It's the ultimate cozy food, perfect for chilly nights when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare.
Not only is this recipe comforting, but it also showcases a wonderful blend of flavors. The combination of oregano and basil adds a fragrant touch, while the diced tomatoes provide a rich, tangy base that enhances the beef and orzo. It's a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, making it ideal for family gatherings or intimate dinners.
Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
One of the best aspects of this Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that doesn't require extensive cooking skills or a lot of time in the kitchen. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you need a quick but filling dinner solution.
In about 30 minutes, you can have a nutritious meal ready to serve. The one-skillet method means less cleanup and more time to relax after a long day. Plus, it's versatile enough to adapt to whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers and reduce food waste.
Flavorful Variations to Try
While the classic version of this dish is sure to please, don't hesitate to get creative! You can easily customize the Savory Ground Beef Orzo by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a burst of color and flavor to the dish.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat. Alternatively, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. With these variations, every time you make this dish, it can feel like a brand-new experience.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Orzo
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add Tomatoes and Spices
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Cook the Orzo
Once boiling, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy your cozy meal!
Make sure to let the dish cool slightly before serving, as it will be very hot.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often the case with this hearty dish), storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. Allow the orzo mixture to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. If the orzo has absorbed too much liquid, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. This way, you can savor the comforting flavors of this dish even after the initial meal.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving the Savory Ground Beef Orzo with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the orzo beautifully, adding freshness and crunch to your meal.
For a more indulgent touch, serve with garlic bread or warm, buttery rolls. This combination not only enhances the comfort food aspect but also makes for a delightful dining experience that your family and friends will rave about.
Nutritional Benefits
This Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ground beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with orzo, which provides carbohydrates for energy, this dish can fuel your evening activities or help you unwind after a busy day.
Additionally, the incorporation of vegetables like onions and tomatoes adds vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to your overall health. This meal is balanced and satisfying, making it a wonderful option for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome dinner without sacrificing flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta, but cooking times may vary.
→ How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this hearty meal.
Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights
Warm up your evenings with this comforting Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe. It's a delicious blend of tender orzo pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a medley of vegetables, perfect for cozy nights at home.
Created by: Lucy Bennett
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Beef and Orzo
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy your cozy meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g