Ground Turkey Orzo

Short Description
Ground Turkey Orzo is a comforting and creamy dish that combines lean ground turkey, sautéed broccoli, and nutty orzo in a rich, flavorful sauce. With tangy lemon, Dijon mustard, and a creamy finish from butter, milk, and Parmesan, this dish is the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly zesty flavors. A quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a wholesome one-pan meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. The orzo adds a nice texture, while the ground turkey makes it a lean, protein-packed meal. The sautéed broccoli brings color and a smoky flavor, and the creamy sauce binds everything together beautifully. With the added zing from lemon and Dijon mustard, this dish is flavorful, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the Parmesan adds that irresistible cheesy touch!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces broccoli
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing broccoli)
• ½ tablespoon olive oil (for cooking turkey)
• 1 pound extra lean ground turkey
• 1 and ⅓ cups orzo (220 grams)
• 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 and ½ cups chicken broth (for a total of 2 and ½ cups)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup milk
• 2 ounces shredded Parmesan
• Red pepper flakes (to serve)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Broccoli

1. Prepare the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into bite-size pieces.
2. Sauté the broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli and sauté for 5-6 minutes until it’s slightly charred and vibrant green. This gives the broccoli a smoky flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

1. Cook the turkey: Add an additional ½ tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add 1 pound of ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked through.
2. Push to the side: Once the turkey is cooked, push it to one side of the skillet to make room for the next step.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

1. Toast the orzo: On the empty side of the skillet, add 1 and ⅓ cups (220 grams) of orzo. Toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the orzo.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Liquid Ingredients

1. Add the seasonings: Stir in 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning, 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, and ¼ cup of lemon juice.
2. Deglaze the pan: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Add more broth: Add an additional 1 and ½ cups of chicken broth, bringing the total to 2 and ½ cups. Stir to combine.
4. Cook the orzo: Let the mixture cook for 6-8 minutes until the orzo is cooked and the broth is absorbed.

Step 5: Cream and Cheese Addition

1. Add butter, milk, and cheese: Reduce the heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 cup of milk, and 2 ounces of shredded Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the butter and cheese melt and everything is well combined, creating a creamy texture.

Step 6: Incorporate Broccoli and Serve

1. Add the broccoli: Add the sautéed broccoli back into the skillet and gently stir to combine.
2. Serve: Serve the dish warm, topped with additional shredded Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra flavor kick.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground turkey and replace it with a plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh, tofu, or extra beans.
• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to spice up the dish.
• Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute it with Asiago, Romano, or even mozzarella for a different flavor.
• Add More Veggies: You can mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra broth or milk to help loosen the mixture. You can also reheat in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free orzo?

Yes! You can use whole wheat or gluten-free orzo for a healthier or gluten-free option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

2. Can I substitute the ground turkey with chicken or beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute the turkey with ground chicken, lean beef, or even ground pork depending on your preference.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth or milk to keep the mixture creamy.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy orzo works well with a side salad or roasted vegetables. For extra flavor, serve it with some garlic bread or a slice of crusty bread.

5. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option or simply don’t have chicken broth on hand.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes, or stir in a bit of cayenne pepper or jalapeño for an extra spicy kick.

7. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works fine in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before cooking.

8. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, to make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk), and a dairy-free cheese alternative like vegan Parmesan.

9. How can I make this dish richer?

For a richer flavor, consider adding a few extra tablespoons of butter or heavy cream in place of some of the milk.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra liquid as needed to restore the creamy texture.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey Orzo is a comforting, creamy dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. The combination of savory turkey, smoky broccoli, and nutty orzo, topped with tangy lemon and rich Parmesan, makes for a perfect meal any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy and impress!

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