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Close-up of a flavorful Ground Turkey Orzo dish, showcasing the delicious and healthy meal.

Ground Turkey Orzo

Avatar photoAlice Yowell
This Ground Turkey Orzo recipe is a comforting and flavorful weeknight meal that's ready in under an hour. It combines lean ground turkey with orzo pasta, vegetables, and herbs for a satisfying and healthy dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Ladle

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
  • Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the browned turkey. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes.
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Stir in the orzo pasta. Cover the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. If using, stir in the frozen peas or spinach during the last minute of cooking.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcooking the orzo. Start checking it at the 10-minute mark and taste frequently. Toasting the orzo before adding liquid can enhance flavor. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end for an extra creamy texture.