Imagine a meal that combines the hearty richness of ground beef, the comforting texture of perfectly cooked orzo, and a symphony of flavors that will have your family begging for seconds. This one-pan wonder is not just a recipe; it's a culinary shortcut to a delicious, satisfying dinner that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Whether you're a busy parent, a working professional, or simply someone who loves a quick and tasty meal, this Beef and Orzo Skillet is about to become your new go-to recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or deep-sided pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook the ground beef until it is browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary.
- Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté with the beef until the onions become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed and coated with the liquid.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking.
- Check the orzo for doneness. It should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, add a little more broth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to incorporate the seasonings.
- Remove from heat and let the skillet rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the dish to set and absorb any remaining liquid.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot directly from the skillet.
Tips
- Choose the right beef: Use ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Don't rush the browning: Allow the ground beef to develop a nice golden-brown color for deeper flavor development.
- Watch your garlic: Add minced garlic at the right moment to prevent burning, which can make it bitter.
- Stir occasionally: When the orzo is cooking, stir periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Control your liquid: Have extra broth on hand in case the orzo needs more moisture during cooking.
- Let it rest: Allowing the skillet to rest for a few minutes helps the orzo absorb remaining liquid and sets the dish's texture.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: The chopped parsley isn't just for garnish—it adds a fresh, bright note to the rich dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
