Ground Beef Orzo Skillet

A Comforting and Easy One-Pan Dinner

There’s something special about a warm, hearty meal that comes together in just one pan. That’s exactly what you get with this ground beef orzo skillet- a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with tender orzo pasta, juicy ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s easy to make and budget-friendly. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning fewer dishes to wash—something every home cook can appreciate!

You can keep it classic with a simple tomato sauce or add extra ingredients like spinach, bell peppers, or cheese to make it even heartier. It’s also a hit with kids and picky eaters, thanks to the mild flavors and soft texture of orzo pasta.

Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or something warm and filling on a chilly evening, this ground beef orzo recipe is a go-to option that never disappoints.

About Ground Beef Orzo

This dish is a perfect blend of comfort food and convenience. Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, soaks up all the flavors from the beef, tomatoes, and spices, creating a rich and creamy texture without needing heavy cream or extra cheese. Unlike traditional pasta dishes that require boiling noodles separately, this one-pan meal cooks everything together, making cleanup a breeze.

Compared to similar recipes like beef and rice skillet meals or classic spaghetti with meat sauce, this dish is quicker and silkier in texture. It’s heartier than a soup but lighter than a baked pasta dish, making it an ideal choice for any season.

Why You’ll Love It

1. Super Easy to Make – This recipe is simple enough for beginners and requires just a handful of basic ingredients. No complicated steps or fancy techniques—just straightforward, delicious cooking!
2. One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in one pan, so you won’t be stuck doing a mountain of dishes after dinner. Less cleanup, more time to relax!
3. Quick & Perfect for Busy Nights – Ready in about 30 minutes, this meal is a lifesaver when you need dinner on the table fast.
4. Customizable & Family-Friendly – Whether you want to add in extra veggies, swap out the protein, or make it cheesy, this recipe is incredibly flexible. Plus, even picky eaters will love it!
5. Budget-Friendly & Filling – Ground beef and orzo are both affordable, making this a great meal when you’re trying to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• ½ cup bell peppers, diced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)

Ingredient Notes

• Orzo Pasta – Orzo looks like rice but is pasta! It cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
• Ground Beef – I usually go for 85/15 lean beef because it has just enough fat for flavor without being greasy. If using a fattier mix, drain the excess grease after browning.
• Beef Broth – This adds extra depth to the sauce. If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or even water, but you may need to add more seasoning.
• Tomato Paste – This helps thicken the sauce and adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use a little ketchup or an extra tablespoon of diced tomatoes.
• Cheese – If you love a creamy, cheesy finish, stir in some shredded cheese before turning off your cooker. Parmesan gives it a salty, nutty kick, while mozzarella makes it melty and gooey!

Kitchen Tools Needed

1. Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – A deep, heavy-bottomed pan is ideal for this one-pan meal. I love using a cast-iron or nonstick skillet because it ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
2. Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Perfect for breaking up the ground beef and stirring everything together without scratching your pan.
3. Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board – You’ll need these to dice onions, mince garlic, and chop any extra veggies you want to add.
4. Measuring Cups & Spoons – For getting the right balance of broth, pasta, and seasonings. If you’re eyeballing, just remember that orzo expands while cooking!
5. Lid for the Skillet – This helps the orzo absorb the broth evenly and cook perfectly without drying out. If your skillet doesn’t come with a lid, a sheet of foil works as a great substitute.

I love using my Lodge cast-iron skillet for dishes like this—it holds heat well and gives everything a nice, even cook. If you prefer nonstick, a T-fal deep skillet is a great choice for easy cleanup!

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef (5 minutes)

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess grease, drain it before moving on.

Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Sprinkle a pinch of salt while the beef is browning—it helps bring out the meaty taste!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics (3 minutes)

Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Orzo & Seasonings (2 minutes)

Stir in the orzo pasta, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the orzo toast slightly for about a minute, which helps enhance its nutty flavor.

Pro Tip: Toasting orzo before adding liquid gives it a richer taste and prevents it from turning mushy!

Step 4: Simmer Everything (10-12 minutes)

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth, then give everything a good stir. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo will absorb the liquid and become tender.

Step 5: Add Final Touches (2 minutes)

Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in any optional add-ins like cheese, spinach, or bell peppers. If using cheese, cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes to let it melt.

Pro Tip: If the dish looks too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up before serving.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese, then scoop onto plates and enjoy your delicious, hearty meal!

This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Orzo – Orzo cooks faster than rice, so keep an eye on it! If it absorbs the liquid too quickly, add a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.
• Toast the Orzo for Extra Flavor – A quick 1-minute toast before adding liquid makes a big difference. It deepens the flavor and keeps the pasta from getting too soft.
• Adjust the Seasoning at the End – The broth and tomatoes bring natural saltiness, so always taste before adding extra salt to avoid over-seasoning.
• Make It a One-Bowl Meal – Toss in veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to add color and nutrition. It’s a great way to sneak in extra greens without extra effort!
• Use the Right Pan – A deep skillet or sauté pan works best to prevent spilling when stirring. If you have a Dutch oven, that works great too!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Protein Swaps

• Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner option with a lighter taste.
• Sausage – Adds extra spice and depth—Italian sausage works great!
• Plant-Based Ground “Meat” – For a vegetarian twist, use a plant-based meat substitute or even lentils.

Broth Options

• Chicken or Vegetable Broth – It works just as well if you don’t have beef broth.
• Water + Bouillon Cube – A budget-friendly way to add flavor without store-bought broth.

Make It Creamy

• Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamy, risotto-like texture.
• A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty finish.

Spice It Up

• Love heat? Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
• A dash of smoked paprika gives it a subtle smoky depth.

Low-Carb Option

• Swap orzo for cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage to keep it low-carb while still soaking up the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread & Side Salad – I love serving this skillet meal with crispy garlic bread and a simple green salad—it balances the richness perfectly!
• Steamed or Roasted Veggies – Serve alongside roasted zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus for a nutritious boost.
• With a Fried Egg on Top – Sounds unusual, but trust me—a runny fried egg on top takes this dish to another level!
• Stuffed Peppers – Spoon the mixture into halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake for a fun twist.
• As a Filling for Wraps – Leftovers? Wrap them in a warm tortilla with shredded lettuce and cheese for an easy lunch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze – Let the dish cool completely, then freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

• Stovetop (Best Method) – Add a splash of broth or water and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. I like to add a tiny splash of milk or broth to keep the texture creamy.
• Oven – Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Pro Tip: If the orzo has absorbed too much liquid while storing, adding a little broth when reheating brings it back to life!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Orzo works best for this dish, but you can swap it with ditalini, small shells, or even couscous. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed!

What if my orzo sticks to the pan?

Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering and use a nonstick or well-seasoned cast-iron pan. If it’s sticking, add a bit more broth and stir.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I make this spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for extra heat. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar all work great! Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor, while mozzarella makes it extra melty and gooey.

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I’d love to hear how this turns out for you! Let me know in the comments—do you like your orzo creamy, cheesy, or with a little spice? If you try this recipe, tag me on social media so I can see your delicious creations! Happy cooking!

Share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!