Easy One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake Recipe

If you’re searching for a hearty and comforting meal that comes together quickly, this one-pan ground beef orzo bake is your new go-to recipe. Combining tender orzo pasta with flavorful ground beef and a blend of herbs and cheese, it’s an easy dish that feels homemade and satisfying.

this Recipe

Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this ground beef orzo bake offers simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All-in-one meal that’s quick and fuss-free
• Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients
• Comforting cheesy baked texture with savory beef flavor
• Perfectly portioned for 6 servings, ideal for families
• Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for this delicious ground beef orzo bake. You’ll be surprised how few ingredients create such a rich, flavorful dish.

• 1 pound lean ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 410 per serving

How to Make One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes with juice, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the uncooked orzo pasta directly into the skillet, stirring to combine. Make sure the orzo is submerged in the liquid.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the skillet mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use an oven-safe skillet to cook and bake in the same pan for easy cleanup.
• Don’t rinse the orzo before cooking; the starch helps thicken the sauce.
• If you prefer a saucier bake, add an extra ¼ cup of beef broth before baking.
• Feel free to add chopped spinach or bell peppers when sautéing onions for added nutrition.
• Cover loosely with foil if cheese browns too quickly to prevent burning.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

You can also freeze this ground beef orzo bake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes to refresh the flavors and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini or small elbows. Adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly to ensure the pasta cooks fully in the bake.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the bake a day before, cover, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Mozzarella is ideal for melty texture, while Parmesan adds savory depth. You can also try a blend including provolone or cheddar for different flavors.