One Pot Tomato Beef Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor. Cooking everything in one pot means the orzo soaks up the savory beef and tomato sauce, resulting in a deeply flavorful and cohesive dish.

It’s also quick and family-friendly. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, this meal is ideal for weeknights. The ingredients are pantry staples, and the recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
salt
black pepper
olive oil
onion, diced
garlic cloves, minced
dried oregano
dried basil
paprika
orzo pasta, uncooked
diced tomatoes (canned)
tomato sauce
beef broth
grated Parmesan cheese
fresh parsley, chopped

Optional additions:
red pepper flakes
baby spinach
mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté the diced onion until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.
4. Add the uncooked orzo to the pot and stir to lightly toast it for about 1–2 minutes.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
7. If using spinach, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted.
8. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of mozzarella or red pepper flakes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 35 minutes

Variations

For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.

If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end of cooking. For extra richness, top with additional melted mozzarella and broil briefly before serving.

You can also swap beef broth for chicken broth or vegetable broth depending on what you have on hand.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid while stored.

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, adding additional liquid if needed.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat orzo?

Yes, whole wheat orzo can be used. It may require a few extra minutes of cooking time and a bit more liquid.

Do I need to cook the orzo separately?

No, the orzo cooks directly in the sauce, which gives it extra flavor and keeps the recipe simple.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and is great for meal prep. Just add a splash of liquid when reheating.

What if the orzo absorbs too much liquid?

Simply add a little extra broth or water and stir until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir occasionally while it cooks and ensure there is enough liquid in the pot.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s mild as written. You can add red pepper flakes or chili powder for extra heat.

Can I add cheese on top and bake it?

Yes, sprinkle mozzarella over the top and place under the broiler for a few minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

What vegetables work well in this recipe?

Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers all pair nicely with the tomato and beef flavors.

How do I know when the orzo is done?

The orzo should be tender but slightly firm to the bite, with most of the liquid absorbed.

Conclusion

One Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is a simple, flavorful meal that delivers comfort in every bite. With tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich tomato sauce all cooked in one pot, it’s a practical and delicious solution for busy evenings. Easy to customize and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

One Pot Tomato Beef Orzo

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

One Pot Tomato Beef Orzo is a comforting, flavor-packed meal made with savory ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. Everything cooks together in one pot for an easy, satisfying weeknight dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One Pot / Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté diced onion for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Add ground beef, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Stir in oregano, basil, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
4. Add uncooked orzo and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
7. If using spinach, stir in during the last few minutes until wilted.
8. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional mozzarella or red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or cream cheese at the end.
• Add extra broth when reheating, as orzo absorbs liquid while stored.
• Freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 760mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 80mg