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!
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)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Broccoli:
Cut the broccoli into bite-size pieces. 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. - Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey:
Add 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. Push it to the side of the skillet. - Step 3: Toast the Orzo:
On the empty side of the skillet, add 1 and ⅓ cups of orzo. Toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. - Step 4: Add Seasonings and Liquid Ingredients:
Stir in lemon pepper seasoning, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Add the remaining 1 and ½ cups of chicken broth and stir. - Step 5: Cream and Cheese Addition:
Reduce the heat and add butter, milk, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the butter and cheese melt and everything is combined. - Step 6: Incorporate Broccoli and Serve:
Add the sautéed broccoli back into the skillet and gently stir to combine. Serve warm with red pepper flakes on top.
Notes
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground turkey and replace with a plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh, tofu, or extra beans.
- Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to spice up the dish.
- Cheese Alternatives: Use Asiago, Romano, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Add More Veggies: Mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
