Description
A comforting and flavorful one-pan meal combining savory ground beef with tender orzo pasta, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic herbs, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the beef and vegetables.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned evenly. Drain any excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Add vegetables: Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the center of the skillet.
- Sauté vegetables: Cook the onions, garlic, and bell peppers, stirring occasionally until the onions become translucent and peppers are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything evenly with the beef and vegetables.
- Add orzo pasta: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, making sure it is fully submerged in the liquid mixture. Increase heat to bring to a boil.
- Simmer and cook orzo: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and is evenly distributed throughout the dish, adding creaminess and flavor.
- Rest the dish: Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together nicely.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve the dish hot.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to reduce grease.
- You can substitute vegetable broth for beef broth for a lighter flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best taste and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
