One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake with cheese and herbs fresh out of the oven.

One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake is a delicious and simple dish that combines ground beef and orzo pasta in a flavorful tomato sauce. This dish is not only easy to make, but it also comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that the whole family will love, this recipe is a great choice. You might also enjoy trying other comforting dishes like baked corned beef for a hearty meal.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it requires minimal preparation and cook time. The delicious combination of tender beef, savory sauce, and cheesy orzo makes it satisfying. Also, since everything cooks in one pan, you save time and effort on dishes.

How to Make One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake

Making this one-pan dish is straightforward and quick. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups beef broth or water

Directions:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; cook until browned.
Stir in the orzo pasta, beef broth, and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese until melted.
Serve hot and enjoy your one-pan meal!

How to Serve One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake

Serving One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake is simple. You can dish it up right from the pan, making it perfect for casual family dinners. If you like, top each serving with extra cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.

How to Store One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, just warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too dry.

Tips to Make One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake

For added flavor, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to the dish. If you want a bit of crunch, you can top the bake with breadcrumbs before adding cheese for a crispy finish.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This gives it a lighter taste while still being delicious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni, but cooking times may vary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything in advance and just heat it before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake.