Description
Cajun Dirty Orzo is a bold and cheesy one-pan skillet dinner featuring seasoned ground beef, tender orzo pasta, bell peppers, and melty cheddar cheese. Infused with vibrant Cajun spices and aromatic garlic, this hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights, ready in just about 35 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Produce
- 2 shallots, finely diced (or 1 small onion)
- 2 green bell peppers, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Meat
- 1 lb (500g) lean ground beef
Dairy
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp grated cheddar cheese (plus extra for serving)
Pantry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 1 tsp garlic & herb seasoning (or garlic powder)
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 ½ cups (300g) orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp tomato purée (concentrated tomato paste)
- 3 ⅓ cups (800ml) beef broth or stock
Instructions
- Heat fats and sauté aromatics: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the finely diced shallots (or onion) and green bell peppers, then sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add spices and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, celery salt, garlic & herb seasoning, dried parsley, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds until the spices release their aroma.
- Brown the ground beef: Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until fully browned and no longer pink, ensuring the meat is evenly cooked.
- Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the orzo to lightly toast and absorb some flavors from the beef mixture.
- Add tomato purée: Mix in the tomato purée thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Then, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Finish with cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy texture throughout the dish.
- Garnish and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh thyme and sliced red jalapeño if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty Cajun Dirty Orzo.
Notes
- Cajun seasoning blends vary in salt and spice level; adjust salt accordingly to your taste.
- If the mixture becomes too thick before the orzo is fully cooked, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it.
- For extra creaminess, add more cheese or a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a leaner option.
- Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
