Ground Turkey Orzo Dinner

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes

This hearty ground turkey and orzo dish combines lean turkey with tender pasta in a savory tomato broth. Ready in about 30 minutes, it offers a flavorful, protein-rich meal perfect for busy weeknights. Cook the turkey until browned, then add orzo, broth, and tomatoes, simmering until tender. Garnish with Parmesan for extra depth. Versatile and easy to customize with veggies or cheese, it makes a wholesome, satisfying one-skillet dinner.

Authored By Tyla
Updated on Wed, 11 Jun 2025 21:29:03 GMT
A bowl of ground turkey orzo in tomato sauce. Save
A bowl of ground turkey orzo in tomato sauce. | savorieswithtyla.com

This Ground Turkey Orzo is my go to when the day has been long and I need something hearty fast. The lean turkey blends into a savory tomato broth while the orzo picks up every ounce of flavor. It is satisfying enough on its own and truly comes together in just one pan

I first made this on a rushed Monday and it saved dinner that night now it is in regular rotation because everyone asks for it

Ingredients

  • Ground turkey: provides a lean high protein base that cooks quickly and holds flavor well
  • Olive oil: adds richness and helps the turkey brown without sticking
  • Orzo pasta: soaks up all the broth and gives the dish a cozy risotto like texture
  • Chicken broth: brings depth and savory notes choose a low sodium version to control seasoning
  • Diced tomatoes with juices: add acidity and a subtle sweetness to balance the dish
  • Italian seasoning: offers a blend of herbs that ties all the components together
  • Salt and pepper: for essential seasoning added gradually to taste
  • Parmesan cheese: adds a nutty salty finish when sprinkled just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Turkey:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the ground turkey and use a spoon to break it into small pieces Cook for about 7 to 9 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through Season with salt pepper and Italian seasoning stirring to evenly coat the turkey
Add Orzo and Liquids:
Stir in the dry orzo followed by the chicken broth and the entire contents of the diced tomato can including juices Stir everything thoroughly making sure the orzo is evenly distributed and submerged
Simmer Until Tender:
Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer then reduce it to medium low Cover the pan and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes stirring once or twice to prevent sticking The orzo should become tender and most of the liquid absorbed
Serve and Garnish:
Remove the pan from heat and let it rest uncovered for a minute or two Spoon the mixture into bowls and top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese
A bowl of ground turkey orzo in tomato sauce. Save
A bowl of ground turkey orzo in tomato sauce. | savorieswithtyla.com

Storage Tips

Once cooled transfer leftovers into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave If the mixture has thickened too much stir in a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground chicken or plant based crumbles in place of turkey without affecting cook time Swap orzo for small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous Vegetable broth works just as well if you want a lighter or vegetarian version

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted green beans For something more filling add a side of garlic bread or serve it with steamed rice for variety

A dish of ground turkey orzo in tomato sauce. Save
A dish of ground turkey orzo in tomato sauce. | savorieswithtyla.com

Cultural Historical Context

Orzo is a Mediterranean pasta that mimics the texture of rice It has long been used in Greek and Italian cooking particularly in soups and baked casseroles Using it here in a skillet dinner bridges its traditional use with modern weeknight needs

Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute the ground turkey with another protein?

Yes, ground chicken, beef, or plant-based crumbles work well as alternatives, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace ground turkey with cooked lentils or plant-based meat substitutes and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What type of orzo pasta is best for this dish?

Regular orzo pasta works best as it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well in the tomato broth.

→ Can I add vegetables to the orzo dish?

Yes, adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers enhances nutrition and adds color and texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Ground Turkey Orzo Dinner

Quick, comforting ground turkey and orzo in a savory tomato broth for easy weeknight meals.

Prep Duration
10 mins
Cooking Duration
20 mins
Overall Time
30 mins
Authored By: Tyla

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Great for Beginners

Cuisine Type: American

Serves: 4 Portions

Diet Preferences: ~

What You Need

→ Main

01 1 lb ground turkey
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 1 cup orzo pasta
04 2 cups chicken broth
05 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
06 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
07 Salt, to taste
08 Black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

09 Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

How to Make It

Step 01

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.

Step 02

Stir in orzo pasta, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix thoroughly to combine.

Step 03

Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 04

Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Important Notes

  1. Substitute ground turkey with lentils and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  2. Enhance nutrition by adding chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers with the orzo.
  3. Spice up the dish with crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
  4. For a creamier finish, stir in shredded mozzarella or a spoonful of ricotta before serving.
  5. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water if needed.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board (if adding vegetables)

Allergy Details

Always check the ingredients for allergens and consult an expert if necessary.
  • Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese)
  • Contains gluten (orzo pasta)

Nutritional Details (Each Serving)

This nutrition info is for reference only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Calorie Count: 420
  • Total Fat: 18 grams
  • Total Carbs: 38 grams
  • Protein Content: 30 grams