Go Back
–+ servings
Cajun Dirty Orzo

Cajun Dirty Orzo: A Quick, Creamy Family Favorite

Cajun Dirty Orzo combines rich flavors and creamy texture for a delightful one-pan dinner that the whole family will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with margarine or omit for dairy-free.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Feel free to use vegetable oil instead.
  • 1 cup Shallots Any type of onion can work in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Green Bell Peppers Swap for red or yellow peppers if desired.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best, but powder works too.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning Adjust for heat preferences.
  • 1 teaspoon Celery Salt Can substitute with regular salt and diced celery.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic & Herb Seasoning Garlic powder is a possible substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley Fresh herbs are wonderful but dried works just fine.
For the Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can switch to ground turkey or sausage for variation.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Opt for gluten-free or whole grain pasta if desired.
  • 1 can Tomato Purée Crushed tomatoes can be used for texture.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Chicken or vegetable broth can lighten it up.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Use plant-based cheese for dairy-free.
For the Garnish
  • 1 red Jalapeño Can be omitted for a milder dish.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Dried thyme can be a good substitute.

Equipment

  • large non-stick pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Dirty Orzo
  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 finely diced shallot and 1 chopped green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of celery salt, and 1 teaspoon of garlic & herb seasoning. Stir well for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, browning the meat evenly.
  4. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the browned meat and stir. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the orzo.
  5. Pour in 1 can of tomato purée and 2 cups of beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  7. Garnish with fresh thyme and sliced red jalapeño. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Perfect for meal prep and storing leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!