Best Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe: A One-Pan Weeknight Favorite

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect comfort food that checks all the boxes—healthy, hearty, and easy to make—then this ground turkey orzo recipe is for you. It’s one of those one-skillet meals that looks and tastes like something you’d order at a trendy bistro, but it’s simple enough to pull off on a weeknight. With tender orzo pasta, flavorful ground turkey, and a rich tomato base, this dish has become a weeknight staple for many home cooks.

Not only does this meal come together in under 30 minutes, but it’s also packed with lean protein, making it a great option for health-conscious food lovers. According to the USDA, ground turkey is an excellent source of protein with fewer calories and saturated fats compared to ground beef—ideal for anyone looking to cut back without sacrificing flavor.

And let’s talk about orzo. This underrated pasta may look like rice, but it’s actually a short-cut pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up flavor like a sponge. If you’re curious about its origins and how it’s used in different cuisines, check out Serious Eats’ pasta guide for a deep dive into pasta shapes and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe

• One pan = fewer dishes
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• High in lean protein
• Perfect for meal prep
• Customizable with pantry ingredients
• Family and kid-friendly

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into making this delicious dish:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
• ½ tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cracked black pepper
• ½ cup diced onion
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 can (8 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes (drained well)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup tomato sauce (marinara works too)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh basil (optional)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Deep non-stick skillet with lid
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Turkey
   • Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add ground turkey, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
2. Add Vegetables
   • Stir in diced onions and bell pepper. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
3. Incorporate Tomatoes and Orzo
   • Add the drained fire-roasted tomatoes. Stir to combine.
   • Add orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
4. Pour in the Sauce and Broth
   • In a bowl, mix tomato sauce and chicken broth.
   • Pour into the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer and Cover
   • Reduce heat to low and cover.
   • Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender.
6. Top and Serve
   • Remove from heat, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and cover for 1-2 minutes to let it melt.
   • Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Customization Ideas

Want to make this recipe your own? Try these delicious variations:

• Add more veggies: Zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or peas
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika
• Go Mediterranean: Swap mozzarella for feta and toss in olives
• Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese
• Make it low-carb: Use half the orzo and add riced cauliflower

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

• A simple arugula or cucumber salad
• Toasted garlic bread or whole wheat pita
• Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for extra fiber

Leftovers, Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge
• Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist
• Freeze in individual portions for easy weeknight meals

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~385
• Protein: 37g
• Carbs: 37g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rice instead of orzo?
Yes, but the cooking time and liquid ratio will need to be adjusted. Rice typically takes longer to cook.

Is ground turkey healthier than beef?
Generally, yes. Ground turkey has fewer calories and less saturated fat compared to most ground beef blends.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely. Just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What veggies go best with ground turkey orzo?
Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and peas are all great options.

How do I prevent orzo from sticking?
Stir regularly while simmering and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pan.

Final Thoughts

This ground turkey orzo recipe has everything going for it—flavor, ease, nutrition, and versatility. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s sure to be a go-to dish in your recipe rotation. Play with the add-ins, use what you have on hand, and most importantly, enjoy every bite.

Let us know how yours turns out!