Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Beef Orzo Skillet is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender orzo pasta with savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and a creamy blend of cheese, it’s both easy to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ small yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dry orzo
• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup beef broth
• ½ cup blended cottage cheese
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add the ground beef and chopped onion to a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the beef as it browns until fully cooked.
2. Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the dry orzo, marinara sauce, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
4. Step 4: Mix in the blended cottage cheese, Worcestershire sauce, grated Parmesan, and fresh baby spinach. Continue cooking for 2-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the dish is heated through.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a creamier texture, substitute blended cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein alternative.
• If you prefer more sauce, add an extra ¼ cup of marinara or broth during simmering.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. This dish does not freeze well due to the creaminess of the cottage cheese.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cottage cheese instead of blended?

Yes, you can use regular cottage cheese, but blending it creates a smoother texture that blends better with the sauce. If you prefer chunkier bits, use it as is.

Is orzo pasta gluten-free?

Most orzo is traditionally made from wheat flour and contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free orzo made from corn, rice, or other gluten-free grains at specialty stores.