Description
Try this easy Cajun dirty orzo with ground beef—spicy, savory, and ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta, beef broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Final Touches: Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with green onions and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
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- se Hot or Mild Cajun Seasoning: Adjust the spice level by selecting the appropriate Cajun blend.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Consider adding diced celery, okra, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
- Cheesy Option: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy variation.
- Swap the Protein: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo.
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Cook Time: 20minutes