Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal to make for dinner? The Quick Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe is perfect for you. It’s a comforting dish packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also uses lean ground turkey, which is a healthy protein option. Orzo pasta adds a fun twist, and the addition of broccoli boosts the nutritional value of the dish. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
How to Make Quick Ground Turkey Orzo
Making this recipe is straightforward. You’ll start by sautéing the ground turkey and then combine it with orzo and other tasty ingredients. Let’s break it down step by step.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces broccoli
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound extra lean ground turkey
- 1 and 1/3 cups orzo (220 grams)
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 and 1/2 cups chicken broth (for a total of 2 and 1/2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk
- 2 ounces shredded parmesan
- Red pepper flakes (to serve)
Directions
- Start by preparing the broccoli. You can steam it or blanch it in hot water for a few minutes. Set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s no longer pink.
- Stir in the orzo, lemon pepper seasoning, dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Raise the heat until it bubbles.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
- Once the orzo is cooked, add the broccoli, remaining chicken broth, butter, and milk. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Finally, sprinkle the shredded parmesan on top and mix until it melts. Serve hot with a pinch of red pepper flakes for some added heat.
How to Serve Quick Ground Turkey Orzo
Serve the Quick Ground Turkey Orzo in bowls. You can top it with additional grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Quick Ground Turkey Orzo
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
Tips to Make Quick Ground Turkey Orzo
- Make sure not to overcook the orzo; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more lemon juice or spice it up with extra red pepper flakes.
- For a creamier dish, you can add a bit more milk or cream.
Variation
You can switch out the broccoli for spinach or kale. You might also try adding different vegetables like bell peppers or peas for more variety. For a vegetarian option, replace the turkey with chickpeas or lentils.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape like ditalini or mini shells if you prefer.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta option.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients ahead of time. Cook everything as directed, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve.
Quick Ground Turkey Orzo
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 12 ounces broccoli
Cooking Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
Pasta and Protein
- 1 pound extra lean ground turkey
- 1 and 1/3 cups orzo (220 grams)
Broth and Seasoning
- 2 and 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
Garnish
- 2 ounces shredded parmesan
- to taste red pepper flakes For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by preparing the broccoli. You can steam it or blanch it in hot water for a few minutes. Set it aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s no longer pink.
- Stir in the orzo, lemon pepper seasoning, dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Raise the heat until it bubbles.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
- Once the orzo is cooked, add the broccoli, remaining chicken broth, butter, and milk. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Finally, sprinkle the shredded parmesan on top and mix until it melts. Serve hot with a pinch of red pepper flakes for some added heat.