Greek Beef Orzo Pasta: 5 Cozy Comfort Food Moments

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Greek beef orzo pasta! It’s a dish that’s not just hearty and filling, but also bursting with flavor that’ll take your taste buds on a little Mediterranean vacation. Imagine tender ground beef mingling with perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce made from diced tomatoes and a splash of beef broth. And don’t even get me started on the aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers—it’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water! The addition of fragrant dried oregano and basil adds that unmistakable Greek vibe that you just can’t resist.

What I absolutely love about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up, yet it feels so special. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or even when you’re entertaining guests. You can serve it piping hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra zing. Trust me, this dish is going to become a go-to in your recipe rotation—it’s just that good!

Ingredients List

• 1 lb ground beef (use lean for a healthier option, or go for regular for extra flavor)
• 1 cup orzo pasta (this little rice-shaped pasta cooks up perfectly in this dish)
• 1 onion, chopped (I like to use a sweet onion for added flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic kick)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz; the juicy tomatoes really enhance the sauce)
• 1 cup beef broth (homemade or store-bought, it adds depth to the dish)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (this herb screams Greek cuisine, trust me!)
• 1 tsp dried basil (for a lovely aromatic touch)
• Salt and pepper to taste (always season to your liking, don’t skip this!)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing and a hint of richness)
• Feta cheese for topping (crumbled, because who can resist that tangy goodness?)
• Parsley for garnish (adds a pop of color and freshness on top)

How to Prepare Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First things first, grab a large skillet and heat up those 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not smoking—just the right balance!
2. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
3. Now it’s time to add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with your spatula and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned. This is where all that flavor starts to build!
4. Next, stir in the can of diced tomatoes (that’s 14.5 ounces of juicy goodness), the cup of beef broth, and the dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste—you want it to be just right! Bring this mix to a gentle boil.
5. Once it’s bubbling away, it’s time to add in the star of the show: 1 cup of orzo pasta! Stir it in, making sure it’s well distributed. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it all simmer for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll want to give it a stir every now and then to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick and cooks evenly.
6. After about 12 minutes, check the orzo. It should be tender and the liquid mostly absorbed. If it needs a couple more minutes, don’t hesitate to give it a little more time on the heat.
7. Once it’s perfect, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve it up hot, topped generously with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that beautiful pop of color and flavor. Just imagine digging into that warm, cheesy goodness!

And there you have it—your Greek beef orzo pasta is ready to impress! This dish comes together so quickly, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or when you just want something cozy and comforting without too much fuss. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious Greek beef orzo pasta. Please keep in mind that nutrition can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so I always recommend checking the labels if you’re counting anything specific. That said, here’s a typical breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup):

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 2g

This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also packs a good amount of protein, making it a great option for a filling meal. Enjoy the goodness without the guilt!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: Seriously, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights!
• Hearty and filling: With ground beef and orzo, this dish is packed with protein and carbs—just what you need to satisfy your hunger.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love.
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax afterward—win-win!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or tweak the spices to your liking; it’s versatile and forgiving!

Trust me, once you try this Greek beef orzo pasta, you’ll understand why it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep making again and again!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Greek beef orzo pasta turns out absolutely perfect! First off, don’t rush the sautéing process—taking the time to soften the onions and garlic really builds that amazing flavor base. Trust me, it’s worth those extra minutes!

When it comes to browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up well as it cooks, so you don’t end up with clumps. It should be nice and crumbly for even flavor throughout. And remember, seasoning is key! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your palate.

As for the orzo, keep an eye on it while it simmers. If you find it’s absorbing too much liquid too quickly, add a splash more beef broth or water to keep it creamy. Nobody likes dry pasta! Lastly, don’t forget the finishing touches—topping it with crumbled feta and fresh parsley really elevates the dish. You want that burst of freshness with every bite!

With these little tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delightful meal that’ll impress everyone at the table!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this Greek beef orzo pasta! For a burst of freshness, try adding some chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully and add a pop of color and nutrients!

Want to spice things up? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or even some smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean vibes, adding sliced Kalamata olives or artichoke hearts can take your dish to the next level.

Herb-wise, you could swap out the dried oregano and basil for fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a bright twist. And if you’re looking for a different protein, ground turkey or chicken works just as well! The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got this delicious Greek beef orzo pasta on your table, let’s make it a complete meal! I love serving it alongside a crisp, refreshing Greek salad. Just imagine juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy olives, all drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette—so perfect against the hearty pasta!

If you want to add a little more crunch, some warm, crusty bread is a fantastic choice for soaking up any leftover sauce. And don’t forget a side of tzatziki! That cool, creamy yogurt sauce with cucumber and garlic pairs beautifully with the flavors in the pasta.

For a cozy touch, you could also prepare some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, seasoned with olive oil and herbs. These sides not only enhance the meal but also add a lovely splash of color to your plate. Trust me, these additions will elevate your dining experience and leave everyone wanting more!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve got some delicious Greek beef orzo pasta leftovers—lucky you! To store them properly, let the pasta cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It should keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, don’t worry—reheating is a breeze!

To reheat, you can either microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. If you prefer stovetop, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Stir it frequently until it’s heated evenly. Just like that, you’re ready to dig back into this comforting dish! Enjoy every savory bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like couscous or even ditalini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary!

Is this Greek beef orzo pasta suitable for meal prep? Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and store it in individual containers. Just remember to add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it moist.

Can I make this dish vegetarian? You can! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or even use lentils for a hearty texture. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked through.

How can I make it spicier? If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you’re sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also toss in some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!

What can I serve with Greek beef orzo pasta? This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Greek salad, warm pita bread, or a side of tzatziki for dipping. It’s all about balancing those rich flavors with something fresh and bright!

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