If you're looking for a quick, cozy weeknight dinner that feels a little elevated, this Tuscan Beef Orzo Skillet is it. Everything comes together in one pan with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, orzo, and a touch of cream for a dish that's simple but full of flavor. This post is sponsored by Laura's Lean.
As a cookbook author and professional recipe developer, I'm always looking for meals that strike that balance between easy and elevated, and this one has been on repeat in our house lately.Â
I've actually been buying Laura's Lean ground beef since I was in college, so I'm excited to partner with them on this recipe. Their lean ground beef is a high-quality protein that cooks up flavorful while still feeling balanced, making it perfect for easy weeknight meals like this.
If you're looking for more one pan orzo recipes, check out our: Cheesy Orzo, Chicken Orzo Bake, and Pesto Orzo.Â
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Why I Use Laura's Lean Ground Beef
For recipes like this, I always reach for Laura's Lean ground beef. It's a high-quality protein that fits perfectly into balanced, everyday meals.Â
I love that it's made without antibiotics or added hormones, and it's been a trusted ground beef brand for over 40 years. It's one of those staples I always keep on hand for easy, flavorful dinners!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One pan dinner with easy cleanup Â
- Cozy and creamy without feeling too heavy Â
- Made with simple, everyday ingredients Â
- Ready in about 30 minutes Â
- A balanced meal with protein, pasta, and greens Â
- Perfect for busy weeknightsÂ
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you'll need for this recipe:
- Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Since this is a simple recipe, the quality really comes through.Â
- Laura's Lean Ground Beef: I use Laura's Lean ground beef here, which is a high-quality protein that cooks up flavorful while still feeling balanced. It's made without antibiotics or added hormones and is a great option for everyday meals.Â
- Garlic:Â Fresh garlic is key for building flavor in this dish. Mince it finely so it distributes evenly.Â
- Orzo: Orzo is a small pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor really well. It gives this dish a creamy, risotto-like texture without the extra work.Â
- Chicken broth: This is what cooks the orzo and adds depth of flavor. Use a good quality broth for the best results.Â
- Cream:Â Just a small amount adds richness and brings everything together without making the dish too heavy.Â
- Sun-dried tomatoes:Â These add a concentrated, slightly tangy flavor that balances the richness of the dish. Make sure they are drained well.Â
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and keeps the dish feeling light and balanced. It wilts quickly, so don't overcook.Â
- Parmesan cheese:Â Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives the best flavor. It also helps create that creamy finish.Â
See recipe card below for quantities.
Instructions
Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Cook the Garlic and Orzo
In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the orzo and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Simmer
Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Finish the Skillet
Stir in the cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and cooked beef. Add the spinach and parmesan cheese, and stir until the spinach is wilted and everything is creamy and well combined. Serve warm with extra parmesan and fresh basil, if desired.
Tips for the Best Beef Orzo Skillet
- Stir the orzo occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking Â
- Don't overcook the orzo - it should be tender but not mushy Â
- Add a splash more broth if the skillet looks too dry Â
- Finish with extra parmesan for a creamier textureÂ
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap spinach for kale or arugula Â
- Use half and half instead of cream Â
- Add red pepper flakes for a little heat Â
- Stir in fresh basil or parsley for extra brightnessÂ
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
FAQs
Yes, but it's best served fresh. If making ahead, reheat with extra liquid to keep it creamy.
You can freeze it, but the texture of the orzo may soften slightly when reheated.
Using Laura's Lean ground beef keeps the dish flavorful while still feeling balanced, paired with simple ingredients like spinach and a light cream sauce.Â
Serving Suggestions
Tuscan Beef Orzo Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb Laura's Lean Ground Beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup orzo
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes drained
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the garlic and orzo: In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the orzo and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the skillet: Stir in the cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and cooked beef. Add the spinach and parmesan cheese, and stir until the spinach is wilted and everything is creamy and well combined.
- Serve: Serve warm with extra parmesan and fresh basil, if desired.
Did You Make This Recipe?
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