If you’re craving a comforting, hearty, and flavorful meal that comes together in a single pan, you’re going to love this Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe. It blends savory browned ground beef with tender orzo pasta, vibrant tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying family dinner, this recipe is easy to make, packed with texture and flavor, and will quickly become one of your go-to skillet meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this dish, each one playing a crucial role in building rich flavor and satisfying texture. From the hearty ground beef adding depth to the light, tender orzo, every component is essential for creating the perfect skillet meal.
- 1 lb ground beef: The protein base that brings savory richness and a satisfying bite to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef beautifully and adds a silky texture.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of fragrant flavor that makes this recipe so irresistible.
- 2 cups orzo pasta: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds brightness, moisture, and a lovely tanginess.
- 1 cup beef broth: Infuses the pasta and beef with deeper umami notes while cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings warm, sweet herbal notes that complement the beef perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the savory profile with its robust, earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The ultimate seasoning to balance and elevate every ingredient.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and a hint of brightness.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it browns nicely and no pink remains. This step builds a robust, savory base full of meaty flavor for the whole dish.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic releases its heavenly aroma. This creates a fragrant foundation that melds perfectly with the beef.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. These ingredients combine to create a rich, flavorful sauce that infuses the entire skillet.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Pour in the orzo pasta and stir well to mix. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo will absorb most of the flavorful liquid and become tender, swelling with all the delicious juices.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the orzo is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a burst of fresh color and flavor. Serve the dish warm for maximum comfort and taste.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just pretty—it adds a bright, herbal contrast that lifts the rich, meaty flavors. For an extra twist, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice can cut through the heaviness and bring fresh zing to each bite.
Side Dishes
This recipe is a complete meal on its own, but you can complement it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for an added layer of texture and nutrition. Garlic bread or warm pita can also make wonderful side options to soak up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party idea, serve the Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe family-style straight from the pan. Or try spooning it into individual ramekins and topping with melted cheese and a sprinkling of herbs for impressive personal servings that look as delicious as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This skillet meal stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors marry even more as it sits, making leftovers just as enjoyable as fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture, especially of the orzo.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems thick. Microwaving also works well—just cover and heat in short bursts until hot throughout.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or even mini elbows work well, but keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep that rich flavor without meat.
How spicy is this dish?
This Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want to give it a little kick!
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat for a quick meal?
Definitely. It reheats wonderfully and flavors deepen when allowed to rest, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy days.
What kind of ground beef is best to use?
Choose ground beef with 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef can be used but might turn out a bit drier.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like home in every bite — easy to make, packed with comforting flavors, and versatile enough to satisfy any busy family’s dinner needs. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular in your dinner rotation. Once you do, it’ll quickly become a beloved classic you’ll reach for again and again.
