Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal

Greek meatballs and orzo skillet is a hearty and delicious dish that combines savory meatballs with tender orzo pasta in a flavorful, aromatic sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. With a medley of Mediterranean flavors—from oregano and garlic to the tangy feta cheese—this skillet meal is both filling and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time spent enjoying your meal.

The combination of juicy, well-seasoned meatballs with orzo cooked in chicken broth and diced tomatoes creates a rich and flavorful base. The addition of crumbled feta cheese brings an extra layer of creaminess and tang, making each bite more indulgent. This meal is simple to prepare and is a great way to bring the flavors of Greece into your kitchen without having to travel far. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for guests, this Greek meatballs and orzo skillet is sure to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Convenience

This dish is made in just one skillet, making it easy to prepare and clean up afterward. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and satisfying.

2. Flavorful Meatballs

The combination of ground beef, Parmesan, parsley, and classic Greek seasonings like oregano and garlic powder results in meatballs that are bursting with flavor.

3. Savory Orzo and Tomato Base

The orzo pasta absorbs the rich chicken broth and diced tomatoes, creating a savory, slightly tangy base that complements the meatballs perfectly.

4. Creamy Feta Cheese

The crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy bite that balances the savory flavors of the meatballs and orzo, elevating the dish to another level.

5. Customizable and Versatile

You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences. Swap out the beef for ground lamb, chicken, or turkey, or add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Egg
• Dried oregano
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Orzo
• Chicken broth
• Diced tomatoes
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Variations

• Lamb Meatballs: For a more authentic Greek twist, swap the ground beef for ground lamb. The rich, gamey flavor pairs perfectly with the Mediterranean ingredients.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meatballs with chickpea patties or plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian take on this dish.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers to the skillet for a burst of color and added nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or the sauce for a spicy variation.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides, ensuring they are cooked through and evenly browned. Once done, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

In the same skillet, add the orzo, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, scraping up any bits of meatball that may have stuck to the skillet for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Meatballs Back

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the meatballs are cooked through.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Once the orzo is tender, stir in the crumbled feta cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the skillet with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot. You can also add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Brown the meatballs in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and get a good sear.
• Check the Orzo: Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
• Use Lean Beef: For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Feta Cheese: If you prefer a creamier texture, use a full-fat feta, as it will melt more easily into the sauce.

How to Serve

Greek meatballs and orzo skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh Greek salad or some warm pita bread. The fresh parsley and feta garnish add a nice touch of color and flavor. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or grilled vegetables for a Mediterranean feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the orzo has absorbed too much liquid.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Let the meal cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat it gently in a skillet, adding extra liquid if needed.

Reheating

Reheat the dish on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add more chicken broth to loosen the sauce, especially if it has thickened after refrigeration or freezing.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap the orzo for another small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even rice if you prefer.

2. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Feta cheese is traditional, but you can substitute it with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder, creamier option.

3. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sprinkle them on top before serving for an extra kick.

4. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Brown them in the skillet just before adding to the orzo.

5. Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe, offering a lighter version of the meatballs without sacrificing flavor.

6. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the meatballs with vegetarian meatballs or chickpea patties, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

7. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Yes, you can add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the skillet along with the orzo for added nutrients and flavor.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

A Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread are great side dishes to complement this meal.

9. Can I use frozen orzo?

You can use frozen orzo, but be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

10. How do I prevent the orzo from becoming too dry?

If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, add a little extra chicken broth or water while cooking to maintain a creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Greek meatballs and orzo skillet is the perfect combination of hearty, flavorful meatballs and tender, savory pasta in a rich, aromatic sauce. The Mediterranean ingredients like garlic, oregano, and feta cheese create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

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