Cilantro Beef Orzo
Savor the hearty, aromatic flavors of Cilantro Beef Orzo, a one-pan wonder that effortlessly combines tender ground beef, fragrant spices, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Infused with the warmth of cumin and smoked paprika, this dish is elevated by the bright, zesty kick of fresh cilantro and a splash of lemon juice. Simmered in savory broth for ultimate depth, the orzo absorbs every ounce of flavor, creating a comforting yet vibrant meal that’s ready in just 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with the option to top it off with crumbled feta for a tangy finish. Whether you’re after a quick dinner idea or a satisfying meal prep option, this Cilantro Beef Orzo is sure to become a family favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium Yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
- 1.5 cups Orzo pasta
- 3 cups Chicken or beef broth
- 0.5 cups Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 0.25 cups Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if desired.
Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent.
Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir well to coat the beef and onion mixture in the spices.
Add the orzo to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Pour in the chicken or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
Simmer the orzo for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Optional: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a tangy, creamy finish.
Serve warm and enjoy your Cilantro Beef Orzo!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2643 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 131.2 g | 168% | |
| Saturated Fat | 45.8 g | 229% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 374 mg | 125% | |
| Sodium | 5953 mg | 259% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 252.0 g | 92% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.3 g | 83% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.1 g | ||
| Protein | 132.4 g | 265% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 543 mg | 42% | |
| Iron | 23.9 mg | 133% | |
| Potassium | 1797 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
