Ground Beef & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo – Easy One-Pan Pasta Recipe
Rich, savory, and deeply comforting, Ground Beef & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo brings together Mediterranean-inspired flavors in a simple one-pan dish that feels both indulgent and practical. Tender orzo pasta absorbs the bold essence of seasoned ground beef, while sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated sweetness and tang that elevates every bite. A touch of garlic, herbs, and olive oil creates a fragrant base that transforms everyday ingredients into something truly memorable.
Weeknight cooking often calls for meals that balance speed with satisfaction, and this recipe delivers exactly that. Everything comes together in one skillet, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. The creamy texture of the orzo combined with the richness of beef creates a comforting consistency, while the sun-dried tomatoes cut through with a bright, slightly chewy contrast.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (lean) | 500 g | 880 kcal |
| Orzo pasta (uncooked) | 1 cup | 200 kcal |
| Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil) | 1/2 cup | 180 kcal |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 kcal |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium | 45 kcal |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | 20 kcal |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | 30 kcal |
| Chicken broth | 2 1/2 cups | 20 kcal |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/3 cup | 110 kcal |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | 5 kcal |
| Dried basil | 1 tsp | 5 kcal |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | 5 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, then stir in garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Cook the Orzo
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add orzo and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Finish with Cheese
Lower heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
6. Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley and serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Simple changes can easily tailor this dish to different preferences.
- Swap the protein: Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini enhance nutrition and texture.
- Make it spicy: Add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Creamier texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
- Dairy-free option: Skip Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
- Boost flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430–480 kcal |
| Protein | 25–30 g |
| Fat | 20–25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35–40 g |
| Fiber | 2–4 g |
This dish offers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying and energizing meal.
Serving Suggestions
This orzo dish pairs beautifully with simple sides.
- Serve with a fresh Greek salad
- Pair with garlic bread or warm pita
- Add a side of roasted vegetables
- Top with extra Parmesan for richness
- Enjoy as a standalone one-bowl meal
It also works well for meal prep, staying flavorful and creamy even after reheating.
Ground Beef & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes430-480
kcalIngredients
500 g ground beef (lean)
1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, in oil or drained)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt & black pepper (to taste)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Directions
- Heat oil: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté aromatics: Add onion and cook until soft, then add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Cook beef: Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until browned.
- Add flavor base: Stir in tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Cook orzo: Pour in chicken broth and add orzo. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed (8–10 minutes).
- Finish dish: Stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
- Garnish: Top with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Stir frequently while cooking orzo: Orzo can stick to the pan easily, so gentle stirring during simmering helps keep the texture smooth and even.
Control liquid carefully: Add extra broth if the mixture becomes too thick before the orzo is fully cooked. The consistency should stay slightly creamy, not dry.
FAQs
1. Can I make Ground Beef & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore creaminess.
2. Can I freeze this orzo dish?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. However, the texture of orzo may become slightly softer after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
3. What can I use instead of orzo?
You can substitute orzo with small pasta like ditalini, couscous, rice, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
4. What type of ground beef works best?
Lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) is ideal because it provides flavor without making the dish overly greasy.
5. Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes, you can use whole wheat orzo, reduce cheese, or add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Conclusion
Ground Beef & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo delivers comfort, convenience, and bold Mediterranean flavor in every bite. The combination of savory beef, tender pasta, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a dish that feels both hearty and refined. Quick preparation and one-pan cooking make it ideal for busy nights, while its rich taste ensures it never feels ordinary.
