Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Creamy Orzo with Meatballs recipe. It’s a dish that combines juicy, tender homemade meatballs with vibrant cherry tomatoes, creamy orzo pasta, and fresh spinach for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight family dinner or hosting friends, this one-pot dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this recipe special? It’s a perfect balance of flavors—savory meatballs, fresh herbs, creamy pasta, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from spinach and tomatoes, making it a wholesome option that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this satisfying dish that’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Orzo with Meatballs Recipe
- Family-Friendly: The flavors are simple yet rich, appealing to both kids and adults.
- One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup! Everything, from meatballs to creamy orzo, cooks in one pot.
- Nutritious: Loaded with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, it’s a well-rounded meal.
- Comforting and Satisfying: Perfect for weeknights when you crave a cozy, hearty meal.
Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- Ground beef
- Large onion, diced
- Dried thyme
- Garlic, minced
- Dried bread crumbs
- Chopped cilantro
- Paprika
- Eggs, lightly beaten
- Salt
- Pepper, to taste
Remaining Ingredients:
- Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
- Cherry tomatoes, chopped
- Red pepper flakes
- Dried orzo
- Low sodium chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Dried rosemary
- Fresh spinach
- Parmesan cheese shavings, for serving
- Fresh oregano and green onion, for serving
How to Make Creamy Orzo with Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, dried thyme, minced garlic, bread crumbs, chopped cilantro, paprika, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a wooden spoon until the ingredients are well incorporated. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
Step 2: Sear the Meatballs
Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, sear the meatballs in batches until they are browned on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point—they will finish cooking later. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same pan, add the chopped cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. This will create a flavorful base for the creamy orzo.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Stir the dried orzo into the pan with the tomatoes, allowing it to toast slightly. Then, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook until the orzo is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Meatballs and Spinach
Once the orzo is nearly done, stir in the heavy cream and return the seared meatballs to the pan. Add the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts and the meatballs are fully cooked through, about 5-7 more minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add an extra splash of chicken broth.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked through, remove the pan from heat. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh oregano and green onion. Serve warm and enjoy!
Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- Orzo Alternatives: If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or even rice.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless twist, swap the beef for plant-based ground meat or use lentils as a protein substitute.
Why Spinach is a Super Ingredient in This Dish
Spinach is not only nutritious, but it also adds a vibrant color and texture to the dish. Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and fiber, spinach makes this creamy orzo and meatballs recipe even more wholesome, boosting its nutritional profile without sacrificing flavor. Plus, spinach pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the orzo, adding a slight earthiness that complements the richness of the meatballs.
Pairing Suggestions
While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with a light side dish like a simple mixed greens salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re looking to add a little crunch, serve with some crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining Creamy Orzo with Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen up the sauce.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the meatballs.
- Using your hands, mix everything together, being careful not to overmix.
- Form the mixture into about 2 tablespoon-sized balls, making approximately 18 to 20 meatballs. Set aside.
2. Cook the Meatballs and Tomatoes:
- Heat 1 tbsp of EVOO in a large cast iron skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet and sear on all sides until browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Cook until the tomatoes are slightly wilted.
3. Prepare the Orzo:
- Add the dried orzo and chicken broth to the skillet with the tomatoes.
- Lower the heat, cover, and cook until the orzo is tender and cooked through. If the orzo cooks too quickly, you may need to add a little more chicken broth to prevent it from sticking.
4. Finish the Dish:
- Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, dried rosemary, and spinach. Mix until the spinach is wilted.
- Nestle the cooked meatballs back into the skillet with the orzo mixture. Cover and cook for an additional five minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Creamy Orzo with Meatballs hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese shavings and fresh herbs like oregano and green onion.
Extra Tips and Suggestions:
- Feel free to customize this recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for the meatballs.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese shavings—they add a burst of freshness and flavor to the finished dish.
- This recipe is great for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Creamy Orzo with Meatballs is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With its tender meatballs, creamy orzo, and vibrant flavors, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Bon appétit!
This Creamy Orzo with Meatballs recipe is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any busy weeknight. The combination of tender beef meatballs, creamy orzo, and nutrient-packed spinach makes it a meal that’s both indulgent and nutritious. Try this easy-to-follow recipe and watch your family fall in love with every bite!
