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Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to end a long day on a cozy note. This Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe is the ultimate one-pan comfort food — meaty, herby, and rich in flavor while being surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s the kind of dinner that hugs you from the inside out. Orzo — a small, rice-shaped pasta — cooks beautifully in broth, soaking up every drop of savory flavor. Combined with lean ground beef, herbed tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Italian seasoning, this dish creates a balanced meal packed with protein, greens, and comfort. For another warm and satisfying orzo recipe, you’ll love our Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo — a rich, one-pan wonder that’s full of flavor and family appeal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Viandes
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
Fruits et légumes
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 can 14.5 oz tomatoes with herbs
Conserves
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
Pâtes et céréales
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
Aides culinaires et épices
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • Optional: grated Parmesan or mozzarella for serving

Equipment

  • To prepare this easy and satisfying dish, you'll need:
  • Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Grater (optional, for cheese topping)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
  2. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
  6. Add the ground beef to the pan.
  7. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
  8. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  9. Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Orzo
  10. Pour in the can of tomatoes with herbs (juice included) and stir to combine.
  11. Add the orzo and beef broth, stirring to evenly distribute the pasta.
  12. Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
  13. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  14. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  15. Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish
  16. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
  17. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  18. Serve hot, topped with grated cheese if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen.
Microwave-friendly: cover loosely and heat in 60-second intervals, stirring between.
Freezing:
You can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
🥄 Variations
Cheesy Version: Stir in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan before serving.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Add Veggies: Throw in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Creamy Twist: Stir in ¼ cup of cream or cream cheese at the end for extra richness.
Poultry Swap: Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
Looking for another cozy one-pan meal? Try our Smothered Chicken and Rice — it’s hearty, creamy, and every bit as satisfying.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken makes a leaner version and works beautifully.
What if I don't have orzo?
Substitute with small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or couscous. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Is it okay to use frozen spinach?
Absolutely. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it in.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes — use a plant-based ground beef alternative and veggie broth.
How do I keep the orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally during cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely — just use a large pan and increase simmer time slightly.
What cheese works best on top?
Parmesan, mozzarella, or even crumbled feta.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! Make it up to 2 days ahead. Reheat before serving.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very — it’s cheesy, comforting, and easy to eat.
What should I serve it with?
A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pairs beautifully.
🏁 Conclusion
This Savory Ground Beef Orzo is more than just a quick dinner — it’s comfort in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. It’s budget-friendly, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable. You’ll want to keep this one in your regular rotation.
And when you're ready for your next cozy classic, don’t miss the ever-popular Beef Giouvetsi with Orzo — a Greek-inspired orzo masterpiece packed with depth and soul.