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


  • Author: Elsa
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A hearty and flavorful one-pot skillet meal made with ground turkey, orzo, and vegetables, topped with melted mozzarella cheese.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add ground turkey, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
  3. Stir in onion and bell pepper and cook until softened.
  4. Add drained fire-roasted tomatoes and orzo. Sauté for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Mix tomato sauce and chicken broth in a bowl, then pour into the skillet.
  6. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Top with shredded mozzarella, cover briefly to melt, then garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or substitute Italian sausage for the turkey. This dish reheats well for meal prep.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: ground turkey orzo, one pot meal, skillet dinner, easy pasta recipe