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Ground Turkey and Orzo Skillet Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 0h 10m
  • Cook Time: 0h 25m
  • Total Time: 0h 35m
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal featuring ground turkey cooked with orzo pasta, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, finished with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. This easy skillet dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with liquid
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
  2. Cook the turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  3. Add orzo pasta: Stir in the orzo pasta, ensuring it’s well combined with the turkey and onion mixture.
  4. Add liquids and herbs: Pour in diced tomatoes with their liquid, chicken broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Season and add spinach: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Finish with cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, stirring lightly to combine.
  8. Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the broth.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a little cream or milk at the end.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or turkey sausage for variation.
  • Ensure to stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the skillet.