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Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe

Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 5 reviews

This comforting Ground Turkey Orzo recipe combines lean ground turkey with tender orzo pasta in a flavorful tomato sauce, enriched with aromatic herbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a hearty, wholesome weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Sauces

  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Herbs and Spices

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Pasta and Cheese

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish light.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until softened, around 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant to release its aroma.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine. Add dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors.
  4. Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth, making sure the orzo is fully submerged; add more broth if necessary. Bring back to a simmer, then lower heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Finish with Parmesan and Garnish: Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

  • To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the orzo pasta with a gluten-free pasta or rice.
  • Using lean ground turkey keeps this dish lower in fat compared to ground beef.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional; omit or reduce for a milder flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey orzo, turkey orzo pasta, easy turkey dinner, one pot meal, healthy turkey recipes, Italian turkey recipes

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/ground-turkey-orzo-recipe/