This One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo combines tender ground beef, hearty orzo pasta, and the richness of tomatoes and herbs. The one-pot cooking method makes it not only easy but also incredibly flavorful, allowing the ingredients to meld together perfectly.
It’s a satisfying and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and wholesome meal that your family will love. Plus, the minimal cleanup required makes it even more appealing when you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner option.
Full Recipe:
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Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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2 cups beef broth
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1 cup orzo pasta
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add the orzo pasta and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and cover the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid has mostly been absorbed.
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Remove from heat and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
There’s nothing better than a simple yet hearty meal that is packed with flavor, especially when it’s made with minimal effort and cleanup. The One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is a perfect example of this. This comforting dish brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and fresh tomatoes, creating a savory, filling meal that will satisfy even the most demanding appetites. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and will soon become a family favorite in your kitchen.
The Origin of One-Pot Meals
One-pot meals have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among busy families, working professionals, and anyone who wants a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of one-pot dishes lies in their simplicity: you throw everything into a single pot and let the ingredients cook together, enhancing the flavors and minimizing cleanup. This One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo recipe follows that same principle, combining all the ingredients in one pot to create a meal that is as satisfying as it is easy to make.
Whether you are looking for a weeknight dinner, a quick lunch, or a dish to prepare for guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s a comforting, all-in-one dish that will keep you full and happy while saving you time in the kitchen.
Why the One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is the Best Choice
1. Quick and Easy Preparation
The One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is one of the easiest meals you can prepare. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a fully cooked meal that is both filling and delicious. The dish doesn’t require any special equipment or complicated techniques. With just one pot and a few basic ingredients, it’s the perfect solution for those days when you’re short on time but still want a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
2. Affordable Ingredients
This recipe uses simple and budget-friendly ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Ground beef, orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and common herbs like oregano and basil are all affordable ingredients that provide incredible flavor. With such an inexpensive list of items, you can feed a family of four without breaking the bank.
3. Balanced and Nutritious
The One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo offers a well-balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables all in one dish. Ground beef provides a good source of protein and iron, essential nutrients that help build and repair tissues in the body. The addition of tomatoes provides a dose of vitamins A and C, while orzo pasta adds a comforting base of carbohydrates that will fuel you for hours. Fresh parsley is a simple garnish, but it adds a punch of vitamins and minerals, enhancing both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
4. Comforting and Flavorful
The key to this dish’s success is the combination of savory ground beef, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the soft texture of orzo. The beef and tomato sauce are simmered together with beef broth and dried herbs, infusing the orzo with rich, complex flavors. The result is a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys satisfying, home-cooked meals that remind them of family dinners or cozy nights in.
5. Minimal Cleanup
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is the minimal cleanup required. Since everything is cooked in one pot, there’s no need to worry about multiple pans, pots, or utensils. After dinner, simply wash one pot, and you’re done! This makes the One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests and want to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
6. Versatile and Customizable
While the recipe as written is absolutely delicious, it can also be customized to fit different tastes or dietary needs. For example, if you want to make the dish a bit lighter, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of orzo. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for an added nutritional boost.
If you’re looking to make the dish vegetarian, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based version. You can even add a handful of cheese on top for extra richness or serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the savory juices. The possibilities are endless, making this a recipe that can adapt to your needs.
Perfect for Busy Families and Meal Prep
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be difficult to find time to cook a healthy, homemade meal every night. The One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is the answer for those who need a quick and satisfying dinner that doesn’t require hours of prep. It’s perfect for busy families, working individuals, and even students who need a meal that they can make in advance and store in the fridge for later.
You can easily double the recipe to create leftovers for the next day, and because it reheats so well, you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day. It’s an ideal meal prep recipe that can be stored in airtight containers and enjoyed throughout the week. Not only will you save time, but you’ll also ensure that you have a wholesome, homemade meal ready to go when hunger strikes.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion
The One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. It’s a great dish for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even a cozy solo meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dish will always deliver the flavors and comfort you need.
Additionally, this recipe is so simple that it’s beginner-friendly. If you’re new to cooking or want to teach someone how to prepare a quick and delicious meal, this is a fantastic option. Even if you don’t have much experience in the kitchen, the clear, straightforward instructions will guide you through every step of the process.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Meal in a Single Pot
In conclusion, the One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is everything you could want in a meal: quick, easy, affordable, and delicious. It’s a dish that brings together all the essential elements of a great dinner — flavor, nutrition, simplicity, and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this one-pot wonder will deliver a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
For those who love the idea of comfort food with a modern twist, the One-Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is the perfect choice. Give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and easy to make, and you’ll see why it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home.