Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavors of ground turkey, tender orzo pasta, and a rich, seasoned tomato sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and satisfying dinner option that is both hearty and comforting. With the added benefits of lean protein and whole grains, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Flavorful: The combination of herbs, spices, and rich tomato sauce creates a delicious and comforting dish.
• Nutritious: Ground turkey is a lean source of protein, and orzo adds a hearty touch while keeping the dish balanced.
• Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and set aside.
2. Measure the Liquids: Have the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and orzo ready for easy access during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks.
3. Season the Turkey: Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove Excess Grease: If there is any excess grease, drain it from the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add Onion, Carrot, and Celery: Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Bell Pepper and Garlic: Stir in the diced bell pepper and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Tomato Sauce

1. Add Diced Tomatoes: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and the tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
2. Pour in Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth, mixing everything together.
3. Stir in Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring well to incorporate.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

1. Add Italian Seasoning: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Cook the Orzo

1. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

1. Check Consistency: If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
2. Stir in Fresh Herbs: If using fresh basil or parsley, stir it in at this point for a burst of flavor.

Step 8: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh herbs if desired.
2. Enjoy: This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for the Best Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce

1. Use Lean Ground Turkey: For a healthier dish, choose lean ground turkey. If using regular ground turkey, be sure to drain any excess fat.
2. Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
3. Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to ramp up the heat level.
4. Adjust Cooking Time: The cooking time for orzo can vary slightly depending on the brand, so check the package instructions and taste for doneness.
5. Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs added at the end provide a vibrant flavor boost. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground turkey with lentils or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
2. Different Sauces: Swap the tomato sauce for marinara or add pesto for a different flavor profile.
3. Cheesy Orzo: Stir in cream cheese or ricotta before serving for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
4. Add Beans: Include canned beans like kidney beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
• On a Bed of Greens: Serve over fresh spinach or mixed greens for a light and nutritious option.
• As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats or a fresh salad for a well-rounded dinner.

Storing and Reheating

1. Store Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freeze for Later: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Reheat: To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet and heat over medium-low until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the orzo with any small pasta like ditalini, elbows, or even rice.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta alternative.

4. How can I increase the protein content?
You can add more ground turkey or mix in some cooked beans for added protein and fiber.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce is a fantastic one-pot meal that combines the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of quick cooking. Perfect for any night of the week, this dish is rich in flavor and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy the satisfying blend of ground turkey, orzo, and a delicious tomato sauce, and feel free to make it your own with various additions and modifications. This recipe is bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Yield: 4

Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce Recipe

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Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavors of ground turkey, tender orzo pasta, and a rich, seasoned tomato sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and satisfying dinner option that is both hearty and comforting. With the added benefits of lean protein and whole grains, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you're cooking for a family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Turkey and Vegetables:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
   Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   
2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
   Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
   
3. Cook the Orzo:
   Stir in the orzo pasta and broth, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cover the skillet. Let cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
   
4. Finish and Serve:
   Once the orzo is cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently to incorporate the cheese, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
   
5. Enjoy:
   Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, quick, and hearty Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce with a side salad or crusty bread if desired.

Notes

• Add Veggies: Mix in spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
• Make it Cheesy: For a richer taste, add more Parmesan or even a handful of mozzarella.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta if needed.