Go Back
+ servings
Ground Turkey Orzo

Ground Turkey Orzo: Your New Comfort Food Favorite

Discover the savory delight of Ground Turkey Orzo, a healthy one-pot meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 pound Ground Turkey Can swap for ground chicken or beef.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be replaced with neutral oil.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is best, but garlic powder works.
For the Veggies
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Substitute with yellow or green peppers.
  • 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes (canned, undrained) Fresh tomatoes can be used when in season.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Marinara can be used for more flavor.
Herbs & Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano is an excellent substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Can be replaced with Italian seasoning.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes (optional) Skip if you prefer a milder dish.
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper Adjust according to personal taste.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Quinoa or gluten-free orzo can be used.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is a good alternative.
For the Finish
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast offers a dairy-free option.
  • to taste Fresh Parsley (for garnish) Basil or cilantro can be used as alternatives.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 pound of ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease, leaving the turkey in the pan for the next steps.
  2. Add 1 diced yellow onion and 1 chopped red bell pepper to the skillet with the turkey. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become tender and translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant and golden.
  3. Pour in a can of 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (undrained) and 1 cup of tomato sauce into the skillet. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil along with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Bring to a simmer, letting the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta along with 2 cups of chicken broth. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
  5. Once the orzo is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Check orzo frequently to avoid overcooking and give it a gentle stir every few minutes while it cooks. Customize with other veggies or fresh herbs as desired.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!