Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef)

Ahh, Manestra—the quintessential Greek comfort food that wraps you up in a warm, hearty embrace. Imagine perfectly tender orzo, simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce, with juicy ground beef making every bite even more satisfying. Topped off with a sprinkle of cheese, this dish is as soul-soothing as it is delicious. If you’re craving something cozy and full of bold flavors, this one’s for you.

Manestra isn’t just food; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home, no matter where you are. Every bite has that perfect balance of juicy beef, aromatic herbs, and just the right amount of tangy tomato. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or even a casual gathering, this dish is a winner. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—comforting, flavorful, and totally satisfying. So, let’s dive into making this Greek classic!

Why You’ll Love Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef)

This isn’t just another pasta dish. Manestra brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Here’s why it’s going to become your new favorite:

Comforting: It’s the perfect food for when you want something warm, filling, and packed with flavor. Think cozy dinner vibes with a side of nostalgia.

Budget-Friendly: Orzo, ground beef, and pantry staples like canned tomatoes and onions are all you need. No expensive ingredients here—just simple, wholesome goodness.

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or heartiness.

Customizable: If you like a bit of spice, throw in some chili flakes or paprika. Want to add a little more color? Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies.

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s the kind of dish that satisfies everyone—kids, adults, and picky eaters alike. And the leftovers? Even better the next day.

Ingredients in Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef)

The magic of Manestra lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you need:

Orzo: This little pasta is perfect for soaking up all the flavors of the tomato sauce, while still holding its shape. It’s like a mini canvas for all the deliciousness happening in the dish.

Ground Beef: Rich, juicy, and savory. It’s the perfect complement to the tender orzo and the tangy tomato sauce.

Tomatoes (Canned or Fresh): A rich, slightly sweet base for the sauce. You can use canned diced tomatoes for ease or fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand.

Onion and Garlic: The classic aromatics that form the base of the flavor profile. So much depth from just these two!

Olive Oil: To sauté the beef and vegetables and add richness to the dish. A good drizzle goes a long way.

Tomato Paste: A small but mighty ingredient to intensify that tomato flavor and thicken the sauce.

Herbs (Oregano, Bay Leaves, Parsley): Oregano adds that unmistakable Mediterranean flavor, while bay leaves infuse the sauce with a subtle depth. Fresh parsley is a must for that finishing touch.

Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course, to bring everything together.

Instructions

Ready to make some magic? Let’s get cooking:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the tomato paste. Mix everything together to create a rich, savory base for your sauce.

Season the Sauce

Add the dried oregano, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

Add the Orzo

Stir in the orzo and enough water (or broth, if you want extra flavor) to cover it by about an inch. Bring it to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for about 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to make sure the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Final Touches

Once the orzo is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. If you like, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Taste for seasoning and adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Dish it out into bowls and serve immediately. Don’t forget a sprinkle of crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese on top—it adds that extra layer of deliciousness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~450 (varies depending on beef and cheese used)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef)

This dish is filling enough to stand on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few sides:

Greek Salad: A fresh, crisp Greek salad with olives, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the hearty manestra.

Crusty Bread: Serve it with a warm loaf of crusty bread for soaking up the sauce. Think of it as the perfect utensil!

Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side adds a refreshing, creamy balance to the richness of the dish.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like zucchini, eggplant, or carrots would make a perfect side, adding some extra color and nutrients to your meal.

Additional Tips

Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of chili flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce.

Make It Ahead: You can prep this dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Dietary Adjustments: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or lamb if you prefer. You can also make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding more veggies or beans for protein.

Storage Tips: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat!

Double the Batch: This dish makes fantastic leftovers, so consider making a bigger batch and saving some for later.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
A1: You can! Small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni works well too. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

Q2: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
A2: Absolutely! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach would be great additions. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the meat.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q4: Can I make this dish in advance?
A4: Yes! You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as they sit.

Q5: Can I freeze Manestra?
A5: Yes, it freezes beautifully. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Q6: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A6: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth to loosen it up. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals.

Q7: Is this dish gluten-free?
A7: Orzo is not gluten-free, but you can substitute it with a gluten-free pasta if needed.

Q8: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A8: Yes! Skip the ground beef and add more veggies or beans for protein. It’ll still be delicious.

Q9: What cheese should I use?
A9: Crumbled feta is traditional, but Parmesan or grated kefalotyri are also great options for topping.

Q10: How do I make this dish spicier?
A10: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick, or stir in some chopped chili peppers for extra heat.

Conclusion

There you have it—Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef), a dish that’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. It’s flavorful, comforting, and the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Get ready for that first bite—it’s going to be pure magic!

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