This Best Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe combines tender ground turkey with small, rice-shaped pasta called orzo, creating a simple and satisfying meal. The orzo soaks up all the flavors from the turkey and seasonings, making every bite tasty and comforting. It’s a great dish when you want something easy to make but that still feels a little special.
I love how this recipe comes together quickly, which is a big win for busy nights. I usually add a little garlic and herbs to the turkey while it cooks, and sometimes a splash of broth to keep the orzo nice and moist. It’s one of those meals that feels like comfort food but without any hassle—and that’s exactly what I’m after after a long day.
My favorite way to serve this is with a simple green salad or steamed veggies on the side. It’s a great weeknight dinner when you want something filling but not too heavy. Plus, it reheats well for leftovers, so I often have it for lunch the next day. Everyone I’ve shared it with always asks for the recipe, which tells me it’s a keeper in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean protein keeps the dish light and healthy. If you want a richer flavor, you can swap for ground chicken or lean ground beef.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you don’t have orzo, small pasta like acini di pepe or even couscous works fine.
Diced Tomatoes: They add a fresh, tangy taste. For a milder sauce, you might use tomato sauce or fresh chopped tomatoes.
Chicken Broth: Adds depth and moisture. Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version.
Fresh Parsley: It brightens up the dish at the end. cilantro or basil can be used if you prefer.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly Without It Sticking or Getting Mushy?
Orzo can be tricky because it’s small and cooks fast. Here’s how I make sure it’s just right:
- Add orzo directly into the skillet with the turkey and other ingredients; this way it absorbs all the flavors as it cooks.
- Use enough broth for the orzo to cook fully. Usually about 2 cups for 1 cup orzo works well.
- Keep the pan covered while simmering to trap steam, which helps the pasta cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally but gently, just enough to prevent sticking.
- Check the orzo a couple of minutes before time’s up to avoid overcooking. It should be tender but still have a slight bite.
Following these steps, you get orzo that’s tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked through.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet or sauté pan – It’s perfect for browning the turkey and cooking the orzo all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Great for breaking up ground turkey and stirring without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for getting the right amount of broth, orzo, and spices.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping onions, garlic, and parsley easily and safely.
- Colander (optional) – Useful if you want to rinse orzo before cooking, though it’s usually not necessary in this recipe.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef for a different taste and texture.
- Add chopped spinach or kale towards the end for a boost of greens and color.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your dish.
- Try topping with feta cheese instead of mozzarella for a tangy finish.
Best Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at roughly 25 minutes from start to finish — super quick for a tasty, hearty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and cook them until they’re soft and smell wonderful, about 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as you cook, until the turkey is browned and no longer pink.
3. Season the Turkey:
Stir in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so the turkey is evenly coated with all the flavors.
4. Add Orzo and Tomatoes:
Pour in the orzo pasta and drained diced tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Pour in Broth and Simmer:
Add the chicken broth. Stir to scrape up any browned bits on the skillet bottom for extra flavor. Bring it all to a simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to stop the orzo from sticking. The orzo should be tender and most of the liquid will be absorbed.
6. Final Touches:
Give the dish a taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes so the cheese melts beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and enjoy your warm, comforting ground turkey orzo meal!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess water from making the dish soggy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
What Substitutes Can I Use for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or couscous work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some may cook faster or slower.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, and sprinkle fresh parsley again to brighten up the flavors.
