Description
A hearty one-pan Cajun Dirty Orzo packed with bold flavors, ground beef, peppers, and spices. Quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for a comforting midweek meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 shallots or 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 green bell peppers, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 1 tsp garlic & herb seasoning (or garlic powder)
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 1/3 cups (800ml) beef broth
- 3 tbsp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 red jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat butter and oil in a pan. Add shallots and peppers; sauté over medium-low heat for 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and seasonings; stir well.
- Increase heat slightly and add ground beef, breaking it up and browning it.
- Add orzo and cook, stirring, until lightly toasted.
- Stir in tomato paste and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Turn off heat and stir in cheese until melted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with thyme and serve with jalapeño if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days; add a splash of water when reheating.
- Use mild Cajun seasoning for a kid-friendly version.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Substitute beef with ground turkey or sausage if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pan
- Cuisine: American