Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo: Your New Family Favorite Dinner

Why Make This Recipe

Finding a dinner recipe that pleases the entire family can be a challenge. Everyone has different tastes and preferences, making it tricky to find a dish that hits the mark for all. However, the Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo is a dish that does just that! It combines hearty ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables into one delicious meal. This dish is not only comforting but also quick and easy to prepare. It’s a one-pot wonder that cuts down on cleanup time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

This recipe is versatile too. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit any dietary needs or preferences. Want to cut back on red meat? Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken. Need to add more veggies? Just toss in extra greens or any other vegetables you have on hand. The possibilities are endless, and they all lead to a tasty family meal!

How to Make Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

Making Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo is simple and straightforward. You won’t need any advanced cooking skills to whip this up. Just gather your ingredients and follow the steps outlined below.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.)
• 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped for optimal caramelization.)
• 3 cloves Garlic (Use fresh minced garlic for the best taste.)
• 1 cup Orzo Pasta (Other small pasta shapes like ditalini can be used.)
• 14.5 ounces Canned Diced Tomatoes (Crushed tomatoes can be swapped for a smoother sauce.)
• 2 cups Low-Sodium Beef Broth (Opt for vegetable broth for a lighter profile.)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (Enhances the dish with aromatic herbs.)
• 2 cups Fresh Spinach (Kale or Swiss chard are great substitutes.)

Directions:

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or skillet, over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s browned all the way through. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.

2. Add Onions and Garlic: Once the beef is cooked, add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Stir it in and let it cook for about 3 minutes. This allows the onions to soften and start caramelizing. Adding fresh minced garlic is next. Stir well and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and beef broth. Then add the orzo pasta and Italian seasoning. Stir to mix everything.

4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta is cooking evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.

5. Add Spinach: When the orzo is al dente, add the fresh spinach to the pot. Stir it in and let it cook for another minute or two until the spinach wilts down.

6. Serve: Give everything a final good stir, and it’s ready to serve! Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary with salt and pepper.

How to Serve Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

Serving Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo is a breeze! You can portion out the orzo into bowls and serve it hot. This dish is perfect as is, but you can also consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. A side salad or garlic bread can round out the meal nicely. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep for the week, this dish is satisfying and full of flavor!

How to Store Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

Storing any leftovers from Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo is simple. First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer the orzo to an airtight container. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Place the cooled orzo in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and it can last for about 2-3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh spinach and garlic can make a big difference. Fresh flavors will elevate the dish.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the orzo while it’s simmering. You want it to be al dente – tender but still slightly firm.

• Customize the Recipe: Feel free to add more vegetables or even different herbs and spices to suit your family’s taste.

• Make it Cheesy: If you love cheese, layer in some shredded cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack right before serving.

Variation

While the Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo is delicious as it is, there are many variations to try. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use either mushrooms or a meat substitute, like lentils, for added texture and protein.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.

• Different Sauces: Experiment with different types of sauces. You could add pesto for a different flavor profile or even a splash of cream for added richness.

• Add Other Vegetables: If you have other vegetables lying around, like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots, adding them will enhance both the flavor and the nutrition of your meal.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in advance for meal prep?

Absolutely! Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it in advance, and after it cools, portion it into containers for the week. Just reheat it in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even elbow macaroni. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta you choose, so watch it closely to prevent overcooking.

What can I serve with Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or even some crusty rolls. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten up the dish when serving.

Is this recipe good for freezing?

Yes! Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo freezes very well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Can I add cheese to the dish?

Definitely! If you enjoy cheese, you can stir in some shredded cheese like mozzarella or Parmesan towards the end of cooking or sprinkle some on top right before serving for added flavor and richness.

In conclusion, Best Ever Ground Beef Orzo is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the family together. The combination of savory beef, hearty pasta, and fresh greens makes it nutritious and filling. Simple to prepare, with tips on how to customize and variations to suit your family’s taste, this dish can quickly become a staple in your household. It’s comfort food at its best!

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