Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth or chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and cook the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the ground beef: Push the onion and garlic mixture to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano, and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Add the orzo pasta: Stir in the orzo pasta, allowing it to toast slightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
- Pour in the broth and tomatoes: Slowly add the beef or chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer until the orzo is cooked: Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add cheese and serve: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian version.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and broth.
- Make ahead and refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: ✓Contains Dairy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 530 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg