If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together in one skillet, this Ground Beef Orzo Skillet with Cheese and Spinach Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s a delicious blend of savory browned ground beef, tender orzo pasta, vibrant spinach, and gooey melted cheese, all mingling in a rich tomato and beef broth sauce. This dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an easy weeknight dinner that feels homey and special at the same time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients here are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so irresistible. From the smoky paprika to the fresh parsley, every element is essential.
- Olive oil: Adds a fragrant base and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- Ground beef: Provides hearty, savory richness and protein.
- Small onion (diced): Gives a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Lends a warm, aromatic punch that brightens the dish.
- Red bell pepper (diced): Offers a sweet crunch and vivid color.
- Smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky undertone that complements the beef perfectly.
- Dried oregano: Brings an herby Mediterranean touch.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Uncooked orzo: The star pasta shape that cooks perfectly in the skillet.
- Beef broth: Infuses the orzo with savory depth as it cooks.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Introduces acidity and juicy texture.
- Baby spinach: Adds freshness and a vibrant green pop.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings creamy melting goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty finish.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Provides a bright, fresh herbal note for garnish.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo Skillet with Cheese and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat your olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Toss in the ground beef and cook it until it’s wonderfully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step locks in the meaty flavor and creates those crispy bits that bring so much heartiness to the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
Now add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the beef. Let them soften and mingle with the beef for about 3 minutes. This combination releases fragrant aromas and builds the foundational flavor.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well so these spices can infuse the beef and vegetables with their warm, earthy character.
Step 4: Add Orzo, Broth, and Tomatoes
Pour in the uncooked orzo, beef broth, and canned diced tomatoes. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. The orzo will absorb the flavorful broth as it cooks, making every bite comforting and delicious.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 6: Incorporate Spinach and Cheese
Stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt gently in the hot pan. Once the spinach is soft, remove the skillet from heat and fold in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until they melt into a luscious, creamy finish.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo Skillet with Cheese and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top is a simple but beautiful way to add a fresh, vibrant note to your skillet dinner. If you’re feeling a little indulgent, a drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of extra Parmesan on each plate takes it over the top.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty all on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a little extra crunch, garlic bread or warm pita rounds make fantastic accompaniments to scoop up all that cheesy, comforting goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Ground Beef Orzo Skillet with Cheese and Spinach Recipe straight from the skillet for a rustic vibe that invites everyone to dig in family-style. You can also dish it into bright bowls and finish with a few chili flakes or a squeeze of lemon for a fresh twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, so everything heats evenly and the cheese stays melt-in-your-mouth perfect.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that still pairs beautifully with the orzo and cheese. Just be sure to brown it well for maximum flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the ground beef for plant-based beef substitutes or add hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth to keep the base flavorful and rich.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes! It reheats wonderfully and can be made a day or two ahead. Just store it properly and reheat as suggested for a quick, satisfying meal any day of the week.
What cheese works best in this skillet recipe?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are the stars here for their meltability and sharpness, but you can also experiment with fontina, provolone, or even a creamy ricotta for variation.
Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in zucchini, mushrooms, or peas for extra color and nutrients. Just sauté them alongside the onion and bell pepper for best results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a home-cooked meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and simple enough for any night of the week, the Ground Beef Orzo Skillet with Cheese and Spinach Recipe is here to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a fantastic way to bring family and friends together over a plate filled with rich flavors and heartwarming goodness. Give it a try — you’re going to love how effortlessly delicious this skillet supper turns out!
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Ground Beef Orzo Skillet with Cheese and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, American
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
A hearty and comforting one-pan meal featuring ground beef, tender orzo pasta, savory vegetables, and melted cheeses. This Mediterranean-inspired dish comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor and protein.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup baby spinach
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season the Mix: Add smoked paprika, dried oregano, optional red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the beef and vegetables with the spices.
- Add Orzo and Liquids: Pour in the uncooked orzo, beef broth, and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Until Tender: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Wilt the Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Melt the Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat. Fold in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until melted and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end before stirring in the cheeses.
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage for different flavor profiles.
- This dish reheats well and makes excellent leftovers for quick meals.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
