Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is cooked with fragrant onions and garlic, then simmered with tender orzo pasta, beef broth, and diced tomatoes before being topped with a blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The result is a creamy, flavorful skillet dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat & Dairy
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Produce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Pantry & Spices
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even cooking and no large clumps.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and slightly translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Add Orzo and Seasonings: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta, beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Orzo: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they melt, creating a creamy and cheesy consistency throughout the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the skillet for a fresh touch. Serve the cheesy ground beef orzo warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce during cooking.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
- Adding spinach during the last few minutes of cooking boosts the nutritional profile and adds color.
