This cozy Ground Turkey Orzo is a quick, flavorful one-skillet meal that mixes savory browned turkey with tender orzo and bright vegetables. The dish smells of garlic and herbs while simmering, and it offers a comforting, slightly creamy texture when finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a weeknight favorite that’s ready in about half an hour and adapts easily to what you have on hand. For more ideas on cooking turkey for the holidays or big meals, check this turkey cooking tips and recipes to expand your turkey skills.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
(Approximate per serving)
- Calories per serving: 410 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Ground Turkey Orzo
This recipe delivers a fast, balanced meal with lean protein and tender pasta in one pan. It’s savory and lightly herbed, with sweet bell pepper and zucchini adding freshness and color. The orzo cooks right in the broth, soaking up flavor so every bite is moist and satisfying. It’s great for busy nights, meal prep, or a simple family dinner.
How to Make Ground Turkey Orzo
This method keeps things simple: sauté aromatics, brown the turkey, add vegetables and orzo, then simmer in broth until the pasta is tender. Finish with salt, pepper, and an optional sprinkle of Parmesan for a salty, nutty finish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the bell pepper and zucchini so everything is ready to add.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 2–3 minutes. The garlic will smell fragrant and golden.
Step 3: Brown the Turkey and Veggies
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Stir in the diced bell pepper and zucchini and cook for 3–4 more minutes until they are just tender and still bright.
Step 4: Simmer the Orzo and Finish
Stir in the orzo, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10–12 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if you like.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Orzo
Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a casual family meal. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for color and brightness. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a full plate. For a heartier meal, add a side of garlic bread or roasted tomatoes.
How to Store Ground Turkey Orzo
- Refrigerator: Cool to room temperature, place in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or in the microwave until hot.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Texture of the orzo may soften slightly after freezing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Ground Turkey Orzo
- Use lean ground turkey for less fat, but don’t overcook it — it will dry out. Brown until just cooked through.
- Toast the orzo briefly in the skillet (1–2 minutes) before adding broth for a nuttier flavor.
- Adjust broth amount if you like a saucier result — add up to 1/2 cup more.
- Taste for seasoning at the end; canned broth can be salty, so add salt sparingly.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon or a handful of fresh herbs to brighten the dish.
Delicious Variations
- Mediterranean: Add chopped tomatoes, olives, and a pinch of oregano; finish with crumbled feta.
- Creamy Version: Stir in 1/4 cup cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end for a silky sauce.
- Veggie-Loaded: Add mushrooms, spinach, or frozen peas for extra volume and nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: Stir in red pepper flakes or a spoonful of harissa for heat.
- Swap the Protein: Use ground chicken, lean beef, or crumbled tofu for different flavors and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use whole-wheat orzo or another pasta?
Yes. Whole-wheat orzo works but may need a slightly longer cook time. If you switch to a much larger pasta, adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly. -
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Allow it to cool, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. The texture of the orzo may soften slightly after freezing. -
How can I make this lower in sodium?
Use a low-sodium or homemade chicken broth and skip added salt until the end. Fresh herbs and lemon can add flavor without extra salt. -
My orzo is too firm or too soft — how can I fix it?
If too firm, add a splash of hot broth or water, cover, and simmer a few more minutes. If too soft, reduce liquid next time and watch cooking time closely; short pasta cooks fast. -
Can I make this in advance for meal prep?
Yes. Cook and cool, then portion into containers for up to 3–4 days in the fridge. Reheat with a little liquid to revive the texture. Add fresh herbs or cheese just before serving. -
What can I serve with this for picky eaters?
Keep it simple: serve with plain steamed broccoli, carrot sticks, or a side of buttered bread. You can also separate components (turkey, orzo, veggies) for kids who prefer items apart.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Orzo is an easy, weeknight-friendly meal that balances lean protein, tender pasta, and bright vegetables in one skillet. It smells inviting as it cooks and tastes comforting with a hint of herb and garlic. Try swapping vegetables or adding cheese to match your family’s tastes. For another take on skillet turkey and orzo with tomatoes, see this recipe for Ground Turkey Orzo Skillet with Tomatoes – Laughing Spatula. Give this simple, flavorful dish a try — it’s quick to make and great for leftovers.
Print
Ground Turkey Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
This cozy Ground Turkey Orzo is a quick, flavorful one-skillet meal that mixes savory browned turkey with tender orzo and bright vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the bell pepper and zucchini so everything is ready to add.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Stir in the diced bell pepper and zucchini and cook for 3–4 more minutes until they are just tender.
- Stir in the orzo, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10–12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Great for busy nights, meal prep, or a simple family dinner. Can be customized with different vegetables or proteins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
