This Best Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that brings together tender ground turkey, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a mix of fresh veggies and spices. It’s a dish with great flavor and a comforting texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this recipe when I want something quick but still healthy and filling. The ground turkey adds a nice lean protein, and the orzo soaks up all the tasty juices and seasonings. I usually add some garlic and onions and sometimes a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra little touch.
One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is with a side of steamed greens or a simple salad. It’s easy to make in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that I find everyone enjoys. Whenever I make it, there’s usually enough for leftovers, which taste even better the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean protein keeps the dish light but filling. If you want a richer flavor, try ground chicken or lean ground beef instead. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo’s small, rice-like shape soaks up flavors nicely. If you can’t find orzo, small pasta like acini di pepe or even couscous would work well.
Diced Tomatoes & Broth: These make a flavorful cooking liquid that keeps the orzo moist. If you prefer, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth for a lighter taste or to keep it vegetarian.
Cheese: I often use cheddar for a nice melt and mild tang. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are tasty alternatives. For dairy-free, try a vegan cheese or skip it and add extra herbs instead.
How Do You Make Sure the Orzo Cooks Perfectly Without Getting Mushy?
Orzo cooks quickly and can turn mushy if not watched carefully. Here’s what I do:
- Use enough liquid—about double the volume of orzo.
- Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking to the pan.
- Simmer uncovered so liquid can reduce slowly and the orzo cooks evenly.
- Check texture around 10 minutes; orzo should be tender but still with a slight bite.
- If it absorbs liquid too fast, add a splash of broth or water and keep cooking.
With this, you’ll get orzo that’s soft but not mushy, absorbing all the great flavors from the turkey and spices.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet – perfect for cooking the ground turkey and orzo all in one pan without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps break up the meat and stir the orzo gently.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the liquid and spices just right for perfect flavor and texture.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, and parsley easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean beef for a different protein taste.
- Add chopped spinach or kale near the end to boost nutrition and add color.
- Mix in crumbled feta or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a creamier texture.
- Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne if you like a bit of heat in your dish.
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
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes cooking everything together on the stove, making a quick and easy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Onion and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
2. Cooking the Turkey and Seasoning:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, around 6-7 minutes. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper so the meat is full of flavor.
3. Adding Tomatoes, Broth, and Orzo:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken broth. Give everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta.
4. Simmering and Cooking Orzo:
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally for about 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Melting Cheese and Garnishing:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cooked orzo mixture. Cover the pan and let it sit for 2-3 minutes so the cheese melts deliciously. Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a fresh and pretty finish.
6. Serving:
Scoop the ground turkey orzo onto plates and serve warm. It’s a comforting, tasty meal that’s easy to whip up any night.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground turkey in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture while browning.
Can I Substitute Orzo with Another Pasta?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or acini di pepe work well. Adjust cooking time as needed because some pasta varieties cook faster or slower than orzo.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover ground turkey orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally so it heats evenly.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Stir in fresh spinach, kale, or diced bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and flavor without changing the recipe much.
