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–+ servings
Ground Turkey Orzo

Quick & Easy Ground Turkey Orzo: Your New Weeknight Favorite

A quick and healthy one-pot dish featuring ground turkey, orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables—perfect for busy weeknights!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Main Dish
  • 1 pound Ground Turkey Substitute with ground chicken or beef if desired.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Other onions may be used, but yellow offers the best flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is ideal; garlic powder works in a pinch.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Substitute with other bell peppers or zucchini.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes (canned) Fresh tomatoes can be used if available.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Homemade or strained tomatoes are good alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Italian seasoning can be used for a different flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Thyme or marjoram can substitute as needed.
  • ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on your spice preference.
  • to taste Salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Gluten-free orzo is an excellent option for dietary needs.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for vegan diets.
  • to taste Fresh Parsley Swap with cilantro or basil for a different flair.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Turkey Orzo
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground turkey, breaking it up and cooking for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of tomato sauce. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper.
  4. Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes to meld flavors. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and 2 cups of chicken broth, ensuring the orzo is submerged. Stir well and cover, cooking for 15-20 minutes until orzo is tender.
  5. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 900gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, consider stirring in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

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