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Cajun Dirty Orzo

Cajun Dirty Orzo: A Cozy One-Pan Dish You’ll Love

This Cajun Dirty Orzo recipe is a delicious twist on the classic that is quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tbsp Butter Adds richness and depth to the dish.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Provides healthy fat and flavor.
  • 2 shallots Shallots/Onion Adds sweet, mild onion flavor.
  • 2 pieces Green Bell Peppers Provides crunch and freshness.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Enhances flavor with aromatic notes.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Brings authentic Cajun flavors.
  • 1 tsp Celery Salt Complements the Cajun spices.
  • 1 tsp Garlic & Herb Seasoning Adds additional flavor depth.
  • 2 tsp Dried Parsley Provides a hint of freshness.
  • ½ tsp Salt Enhances overall flavor.
For the Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Source of protein and heartiness.
  • cups Orzo Pasta Base of the dish.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Purée Adds richness and color.
  • 3⅓ cups Beef Broth Provides flavor and moisture.
  • 3 tbsp Cheddar Cheese Adds creaminess and tang.
Finishing Touches
  • 1 piece Red Jalapeño Optional heat and color.
  • Fresh Thyme Optional garnish for freshness.

Equipment

  • deep non-stick pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Dirty Orzo
  1. In a deep non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, add 2 finely diced shallots and 2 diced green bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of celery salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic & herb seasoning, 2 teaspoons of dried parsley, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook for another 2 minutes until the mixture is aromatic.
  3. Increase the heat to medium and add 1 pound of ground beef to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it up, stirring occasionally until it's well-browned and no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes.
  4. Once the beef is browned, add 1½ cups of orzo pasta to the mixture. Stir well to combine and toast the pasta for about 2 minutes.
  5. Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato purée followed by 3⅓ cups of beef broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Once the orzo is cooked, turn off the heat and fold in 3 tablespoons of grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme and sliced red jalapeño.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; add a splash of broth when reheating to keep the orzo from drying out.

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