Are you tired of the same old weeknight routine? Look no further! Ground beef and orzo are a match made in heaven, and when combined with some simple ingredients and clever cooking techniques, can be transformed into a diverse range of dishes perfect for busy evenings. From hearty skillets to flavorful casseroles, and even salads and soups, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 savory ground beef and orzo recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes offer something for everyone. So let’s get cooking!
One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet
This hearty skillet dish is a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. Ground beef, orzo pasta, and vegetables come together in a rich tomato-based sauce, all cooked in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and sauce has thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Orzo Casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of ground beef, orzo pasta, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked orzo, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef and Orzo Stuffed Peppers
Add a kick to your stuffed peppers with this flavorful recipe that combines spicy ground beef, creamy orzo, and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, followed by cooked orzo and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Ground Beef and Orzo Salad
This hearty salad combines the flavors of Greece and Italy with ground beef, orzo pasta, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add mixed greens, feta cheese, red onion, and olives to the cooked orzo pasta.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo Soup with Fresh Herbs
This hearty soup combines tender ground beef, nutty orzo, and a medley of fresh herbs to create a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened.
4. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, and cooked orzo. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of ground beef, orzo pasta, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, and peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the beef mixture and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Ground Beef and Orzo with Feta
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the comfort of ground beef with the creaminess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a bed of nutty orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken broth, feta cheese, and dried oregano. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked orzo with the beef and sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed zucchini, this recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef and orzo with the natural sweetness of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
7. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Ground Beef and Orzo Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of ground beef with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and basil, served over a bed of comforting orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in chopped basil and cooked orzo pasta. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo with Roasted Garlic Sauce
This comforting dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef and orzo pasta with a rich, roasted garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in roasted garlic sauce (see below).
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta, ground beef mixture, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Roasted Garlic Sauce:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and mashed-like.
3. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl and stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo Meatball Skillet
This hearty skillet meal combines the flavors of Italian-inspired meatballs with the comfort of a warm, one-pot dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through.
7. Serve hot over orzo pasta.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. This recipe combines the richness of ground beef, nutty orzo, wilted spinach, and salty parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the chicken broth, cooked orzo, and spinach leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the spinach has wilted and the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo Chili Mac
A hearty, comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines ground beef, orzo pasta, and a blend of spices to create a satisfying chili-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked orzo, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes with the ground beef mixture; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo with Mushroom Gravy
This comforting dish combines the flavors of ground beef, orzo pasta, and a rich mushroom gravy for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Stir in the chicken broth and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine the cooked orzo and mushroom gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo Taco Bake
A twist on traditional taco nights, this recipe combines ground beef, orzo pasta, and taco seasoning for a flavorful and satisfying casserole. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked orzo, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo with Lemon Garlic Butter
This hearty one-pot dish combines tender ground beef, nutty orzo, and a bright citrus flavor profile. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic, and butter to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer mixture for 5-7 minutes or until liquid has reduced slightly and flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in cooked orzo and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef and orzo with a rich tomato sauce, topped with a crispy mashed potato crust. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups tomato sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and mashed
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked orzo with the meat mixture.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes.
Ground Beef and Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Ground Beef and Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the richness of ground beef with the nutty goodness of orzo, all tied together by the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add ground beef; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked orzo pasta to the skillet; stir until well combined with the meat mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo in Creamy Pesto Sauce
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot dish that combines the comfort of ground beef with the creamy goodness of pesto sauce, served over a bed of nutty orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add the chicken broth, pesto sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy pesto sauce.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Orzo with Caramelized Onions
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of ground beef, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the creaminess of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Remove the cooked beef from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onions to the skillet. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and cooked ground beef back into the skillet. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 savory ground beef and orzo recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From one-pot skillets to casseroles, stuffed peppers to soups and stews, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to please. Try One-Pot Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet, Cheesy Ground Beef and Orzo Casserole, or Spicy Ground Beef and Orzo Stuffed Peppers for a quick and delicious meal. With a variety of flavors and textures, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes.
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