Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For a touch of spice, you could substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken and add a pinch of chili flakes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the beef for a mix of mushrooms and zucchini.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking up any large chunks with a wooden spoon, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper, allowing the spices to bloom and enhance the ground beef’s flavor.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes and the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the orzo and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, adding a touch of brightness and color to your dish.
Remember, cooking is as much about intuition as it is about instructions. Trust your senses—if it smells ready, it probably is!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
