Incredible Greek Beef Orzo Pasta in 40 Mins

Name: Incredible Greek Beef Orzo Pasta in 40 Mins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

by Manar Jota

September 29, 2025

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Greek Beef Orzo Pasta has a way of transporting me straight to a sun-drenched Greek island, even when I’m just cooking in my own kitchen. I remember the first time I tried a truly authentic Greek orzo beef recipe; the aroma of the spices filled my home, and the tender beef combined with perfectly cooked orzo was pure comfort. It felt so special, yet surprisingly simple to make. This one-pot wonder is now a staple in my meal rotation, bringing those vibrant Mediterranean flavors to my table any night of the week. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

This Greek Beef Orzo Pasta is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly satisfying, packed with delicious Mediterranean spices that make every bite sing. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a fantastic meal without a fuss.

Incredible Flavor: Experience a symphony of aromatic herbs and spices that create a truly Beef orzo with Greek flavors experience.
Speedy Prep: Ready in under an hour, this recipe minimizes your time in the kitchen.
Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
Family Approved: The comforting combination of beef and pasta is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, which is always a win!
Healthy & Hearty: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables for an even richer Beef orzo with Greek flavors dish.

Ingredients for Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a wonderfully flavorful Greek orzo pasta with ground beef dish. I love that most of these are pantry staples, making this recipe super accessible for any night of the week.

1 tablespoon olive oil – the base for sautéing our aromatics.
1 pound ground beef – 80/20 or 90/10 works best for a good balance of flavor and richness.
1 medium onion, chopped – about 1 cup, this adds a foundational sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic savory depth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – for that unmistakable Mediterranean herbaceousness.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – complements the oregano beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – this is the secret ingredient that gives authentic Greek dishes their unique warmth and complexity!
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – another spice that adds a subtle, warm depth that really makes this dish sing.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – to enhance all the other flavors.
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – provides moisture and a lovely tomato base.
4 cups beef broth – the cooking liquid for our orzo and adds extra beefy flavor.
1 cup orzo pasta – this rice-shaped pasta cooks up perfectly tender in the broth.
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving) – adds a salty, tangy finish that’s divine.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a pop of freshness and color.

How to Make Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

Get ready to whip up a truly delicious and easy Greek beef orzo pasta! This one-pot method means minimal cleanup, and the results are absolutely worth it. Follow these simple steps for a flavorful and satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, grab a large pot or Dutch oven and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Place it over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s nicely browned. Once browned, carefully drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Add 1 medium onion, chopped, to the pot with the beef. Sauté until the onion is softened and looks translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step builds a sweet foundation for our flavors.
Step 3: Now for the aromatic magic! Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, along with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until you can really smell those wonderful spices. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Pour in 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained, and 4 cups beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. Bring this savory liquid mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic starts to happen, creating the base for your easy Greek beef orzo pasta.
Step 5: Stir in 1 cup orzo pasta. Make sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. You want the orzo to be perfectly cooked through and tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!
Step 6: Once the orzo is cooked and the liquid has thickened, give it a final taste test. Adjust the salt and pepper if needed. This simple Greek orzo with beef is almost ready to be enjoyed!
Step 7: Ladle the hot Greek Beef Orzo Pasta into bowls. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, garnish with 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy this delightful one-pan Greek beef orzo pasta!

Greek Beef Orzo Pasta with ground beef and orzo in a pot

Pro Tips for the Best Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

Want to elevate your Greek orzo beef recipe from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in creating that perfect, authentic flavor and texture. These simple tips will help ensure your dish is a hit every single time.

Don’t skip the cinnamon and cloves! These warm spices are key to that authentic Greek flavor profile and truly elevate this Greek orzo beef recipe.
Brown the beef well and drain the fat completely. This ensures a cleaner flavor and a less greasy final dish.
Stir the orzo occasionally while it simmers. This prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and helps it cook evenly.

What’s the secret to perfect Greek Beef Orzo Pasta?

The real secret lies in those warming spices like cinnamon and cloves, which provide depth beyond just savory notes. Mastering the one-pan technique ensures the orzo absorbs all the delicious flavors as it cooks perfectly. For more insights into traditional spice pairings, you can explore resources on spice pairings.

Can I make Greek Beef Orzo Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the beef and onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, add the broth, tomatoes, and orzo, and proceed with the recipe. It’s a great way to shorten your cooking time. For other make-ahead meal ideas, check out these recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Greek Beef Orzo Pasta?

A common pitfall is overcooking the orzo, which can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of simmering and stir well. Also, be sure to drain the excess fat from the beef for a cleaner taste.

Best Ways to Serve Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

This hearty and flavorful Greek beef orzo pasta is wonderful on its own, but a few thoughtful additions can truly elevate your meal. It’s so versatile, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a more special gathering. I love how a simple garnish can transform the presentation and taste!

For a truly Flavorful Greek beef orzo experience, I always recommend serving it hot right from the pot. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese adds a delightful salty tang that beautifully contrasts the rich beef and spices. Don’t forget a generous handful of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and vibrant color. If you want to add a side, a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil makes a perfect refreshing accompaniment, leaning into those Mediterranean vibes. For similar Mediterranean-inspired dishes, you might enjoy our Mediterranean Chicken Gyros.

Close-up of Greek Beef Orzo Pasta garnished with feta and parsley

Nutrition Facts for Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, and here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that balances protein and carbohydrates nicely.

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 700mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

Leftovers of this delicious Greek beef orzo pasta are almost as good as the first serving! Once the dish has cooled slightly, which usually takes about an hour, it’s time to think about storage. For the best quality, transfer the cooled pasta to airtight containers. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods in your refrigerator. Properly stored Greek beef orzo leftovers will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. For other ground beef recipes, consider our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.

If you’ve made a big batch and want to save some for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just be sure to stir halfway through for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Beef Orzo Pasta

What is Greek beef orzo pasta?

Greek beef orzo pasta is a comforting one-pot dish that combines savory ground beef with tender orzo pasta, all simmered in a flavorful broth infused with classic Mediterranean spices like oregano, thyme, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s a hearty main course that brings the delicious tastes of Greece right to your table.

Can I make this an authentic Greek beef orzo recipe?

Absolutely! The key to an authentic Greek beef orzo experience lies in the subtle use of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, which are often found in traditional Greek cooking but might be unexpected in pasta dishes. Don’t skip them! Using good quality beef broth and fresh herbs for garnish also enhances the authenticity.

How do I make Greek beef orzo pasta vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this Greek orzo pasta, simply omit the ground beef and substitute it with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and lentils. You’ll also want to swap the beef broth for vegetable broth to keep it entirely plant-based. The rest of the spices and orzo will still create a wonderful Mediterranean flavor profile.

What are some other flavor variations for Greek orzo pasta with ground beef?

For a twist on this Greek orzo pasta with ground beef, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or stir in some chopped Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes towards the end of cooking for an extra layer of briny, intense flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten everything up beautifully. If you enjoy noodle dishes, you might like our Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.

Variations of Greek Beef Orzo Pasta You Can Try

This versatile Greek beef orzo pasta recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! Whether you’re looking for a dietary swap, a different cooking method, or just a new flavor profile, there are so many ways to make this dish your own. It’s always fun to experiment and find new favorites.

Vegetarian Option: For a meatless delight, swap the ground beef for finely crumbled firm tofu or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll still get that wonderful Simple Greek orzo with beef flavor profile, just without the meat.
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices in Step 3. This will give your Greek orzo pasta with ground beef a subtle warmth that complements the savory notes beautifully.
Mediterranean Veggie Boost: Amp up the veggies by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even some spinach along with the onions in Step 2. This adds extra nutrients and a lovely pop of color to your dish.
Lemon Herb Twist: For a brighter, fresher take, stir in the juice of half a lemon and some fresh dill or mint during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This variation of Simple Greek orzo with beef offers a delightful zesty finish.