Dinner

Ground Beef Orzo Skillet Recipe

ByElara Stone February 7, 2026February 7, 2026

Introduction

This Ground Beef Orzo Skillet is a hearty, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender orzo pasta with savory ground beef and fresh spinach, it’s quick to make and packed with comforting Italian-inspired flavors.

A close-up of a single-layer cooked rice dish mixed with ground meat, tomato bits, wilted dark green spinach leaves, and shreds of white cheese scattered throughout; the rice is orange-tinted, likely from sauce or seasoning, with a slightly moist and chunky texture. A wooden spoon is scooping a portion of the mixture, showing the different ingredients together, resting on a white marbled surface in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
½ small yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup dry orzo
1 ½ cups marinara sauce
½ cup beef broth
½ cup blended cottage cheese
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ cup grated Parmesan
2 cups fresh baby spinach

Instructions

Step 1: Add the ground beef and chopped onion to a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the beef as it browns until fully cooked.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the dry orzo, marinara sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
Step 4: Mix in the blended cottage cheese, Worcestershire sauce, grated Parmesan, and fresh baby spinach. Continue cooking for 2 to 4 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the dish is heated through.
Step 5: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, use ricotta cheese instead of blended cottage cheese.
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added on top before serving for extra freshness.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the dish feels dry.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a single-layer serving of a creamy, orange-brown orzo pasta mixed with browned ground meat and spinach leaves, creating a mix of soft textures and green bursts throughout. On top, small shredded cheese pieces add light color and texture. A woman's hand holds a fork, lifting a bite-sized portion of the orzo and meat mixture from the plate. Behind, a white bowl filled with more of the same dish is slightly out of focus, with fresh red tomatoes and green spinach scattered on the white marbled background around the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells work well, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to blend the cottage cheese?

Blending the cottage cheese creates a smooth, creamy texture similar to ricotta, but if you prefer, you can stir it in unblended for a chunkier consistency.