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Delicious Ground Beef Orzo dish served in a bowl with herbs

Ground Beef Orzo

A comforting blend of tender orzo pasta and seasoned ground beef, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb lean ground beef Use lean beef for a healthier option.
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Any small pasta can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the dish's aroma.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs Use tomatoes with herbs for added flavor.
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth For a healthier version, opt for low-sodium.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach Can substitute with kale or Swiss chard.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Mix of basil, oregano, and thyme.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, around 6-8 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and canned tomatoes; let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  4. Pour in the orzo and beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Finally, stir in the fresh spinach and Italian seasoning, cooking for about another minute until the spinach wilts.

Notes

Leftover Ground Beef Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the orzo and prevent it from drying out. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.