One-Pot Orzo Bolognese Recipe

This One-Pot Orzo Bolognese is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner! Imagine tender orzo pasta, savory ground beef, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered together in a rich and cheesy tomato-based sauce. This recipe is simple to prepare and delivers a comforting and delicious meal that’s ready in just 35 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Easy: This recipe is packed with Italian-inspired flavors and comes together in a flash with just one pot to clean. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the vegetables or use your favorite type of small pasta for a personalized touch.
• Kid-Friendly: The combination of pasta, meat, and cheese is a classic that’s sure to please even picky eaters.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and brown the beef.
• Onion, carrot, and celery: A classic mirepoix that provides a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Ground beef: Adds a hearty and savory element to the sauce.
• Dried oregano and basil: Adds classic Italian herb flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Season the sauce to perfection.
• Tomato paste: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and freshness.
• Beef broth: Adds flavor and forms the base of the sauce. Use low-sodium or no-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness.
• Orzo pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated and adds a salty and umami flavor to the dish.
• Fresh basil: Chopped and adds a fresh herb flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make One-Pot Orzo Bolognese

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste until well combined with the meat, then add the diced tomatoes along with their juice. Mix well to integrate all the flavors.

Step 4: Simmer the Orzo

Pour the beef broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Ladle the orzo Bolognese into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use lean ground beef: For a healthier option, use extra-lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Control the salt: Opt for low-sodium beef broth to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Prevent sticking: Stir the orzo occasionally while simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Freshly grated cheese: Freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Garnish just before serving: Garnish with fresh basil just before serving to keep it vibrant and aromatic.

How to Serve

This One-Pot Orzo Bolognese is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping and sopping up the extra sauce.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who like an extra cheesy kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pot Orzo Bolognese is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover orzo Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can! Other small pasta shapes, such as ditalini, macaroni, or even small shells, would work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Romano, Asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the dish? Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or a bay leaf would be delicious additions to the sauce.

This One-Pot Orzo Bolognese Recipe is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and minimal cleanup, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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