Description
This Meatball Orzo Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal featuring tender meatballs, flavorful orzo pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork (for meatballs)
- 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
- 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
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or pork, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer, then add the cherry tomatoes. Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo and sauce.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet and let the dish simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the meatballs are fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried.
- You can substitute the ground beef or pork with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg