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Cajun Dirty Orzo

Cajun Dirty Orzo: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Wonder

Cajun Dirty Orzo combines smoky, spicy flavors in a budget-friendly, one-pan meal that the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tbsp Butter Can substitute with margarine or omit for dairy-free.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Can be substituted with any cooking oil.
  • 2 shallots Shallots Can substitute with 1 onion.
  • 2 pieces Green Bell Peppers Can substitute with red bell peppers.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh is best.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Celery Salt Best used as is.
  • 1 tsp Garlic & Herb Seasoning Garlic powder can be used if needed.
  • 2 tsp Dried Parsley Fresh is preferable.
  • 0.5 tsp Salt To taste; adjust based on broth.
For the Filling
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or sausage.
  • 1.5 cups Orzo Pasta Can use any short pasta.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Purée Can substitute with tomato paste.
  • 3.33 cups Beef Broth Opt for low-sodium versions.
  • 3 tbsp Cheddar Cheese Grated; optional.
For Serving
  • 1 piece Red Jalapeño Sliced; optional based on spice tolerance.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme Can use dried thyme if fresh is unavailable.

Equipment

  • deep non-stick pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a deep non-stick pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Once melted, add 2 chopped shallots and 2 diced green bell peppers to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of celery salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic & herb seasoning, and 2 teaspoons of dried parsley. Cook for an additional minute.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of ground beef to the pan. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes until no longer pink.
  4. Stir in 1½ cups of orzo pasta, mixing thoroughly, and let toast for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato purée and 3⅓ cups of beef broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of grated cheddar cheese until melted.
  7. Serve the Cajun Dirty Orzo in bowls, garnished with fresh thyme and sliced red jalapeños.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.

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