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Meatball Orzo Skillet Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 43 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender homemade meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with orzo pasta. This Meatball Orzo Skillet blends savory ground meat, aromatic herbs, and tender pasta for a comforting dinner that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Orzo Skillet

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or pork, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated, then form the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully and cook them until they are browned on all sides, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the browned meatballs from the pan and set them aside for later.
  3. Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step adds a nutty flavor to the orzo.
  4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried basil into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then add the cherry tomatoes, and nestle the browned meatballs back into the skillet within the tomato and orzo mixture.
  5. Cook Through: Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat once cooked. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve the Meatball Orzo Skillet hot for a delicious and comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and orzo to make the dish gluten-free.
  • Fresh basil can be substituted for dried basil for a more vibrant herb flavor.
  • To make ahead, you can prepare meatballs and refrigerate them, then cook and simmer as directed when ready to serve.
  • If the sauce thickens too much during cooking, add a little more chicken broth or water to loosen it.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/meatball-orzo-skillet-recipe/