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One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake


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  • Author: Janet Reynolds
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake is a cozy, cheesy one-pan dinner made with seasoned ground beef, tender orzo, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella for an easy family meal that is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and comforting casserole-style dinners.


Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 ounces

2 1/2 cups beef broth

1 cup uncooked orzo

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped parsley


Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.

2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.

3. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the tomato paste and stir well to coat the beef mixture evenly.

5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

6. Stir in the uncooked orzo and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo begins to soften and most of the liquid is absorbed.

7. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.

8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

10. Finish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it rests, so avoid overcooking it on the stove before baking.

For a richer flavor, use lean ground beef with enough fat to keep the dish savory without making it greasy.

A splash of broth when reheating leftovers helps bring back the creamy texture and keeps the orzo tender.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pan Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 465
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 860mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 31g
  • Cholesterol: 78mg