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Cajun Dirty Orzo

Hearty Cajun Dirty Orzo: A One-Pan Family Favorite

This Cajun Dirty Orzo is a flavorful, one-pan meal that's quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tbsp Butter adds richness and flavor; can substitute with more olive oil for a dairy-free version
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil provides healthy fats and enhances flavor; can substitute with vegetable oil
  • 2 pieces Shallots use onion if shallots are unavailable
  • 2 pieces Green Bell Peppers for added spice, use a different colored pepper
  • 3 cloves Garlic can substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning deliver characteristic Cajun spice blend; adjust for heat tolerance
  • 1 tsp Celery Salt replace with regular salt plus a bit of celery seed if not available
  • 1 tsp Garlic & Herb Seasoning can use garlic powder instead
  • 2 tsp Dried Parsley fresh parsley can be used if available
  • 0.5 tsp Salt adjust according to taste
For the Protein & Pasta
  • 1 lb Ground Beef lean ground turkey or sausage can be substituted
  • 1.5 cups Orzo Pasta can replace with small pasta shapes if desired
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Purée use fresh tomatoes if preferred
  • 3.33 cups Beef Broth low sodium options are beneficial
  • 3 tbsp Cheddar Cheese can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack
For the Garnish
  • 1 piece Red Jalapeño optional garnish for heat; substitute with other hot peppers based on preference
  • 1 sprig Fresh Thyme a fragrant herb to enhance visual and taste profile

Equipment

  • large chef's pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Dirty Orzo
  1. In a large chef's pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add 2 diced shallots and 2 chopped green bell peppers. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
  2. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of celery salt, and 1 teaspoon of garlic & herb seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spatula, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until nicely browned.
  4. Stir in 1½ cups of orzo pasta, allowing it to toast slightly for 2-3 minutes. Keep the mixture moving to prevent sticking.
  5. Pour in 2 tablespoons of tomato purée and 3⅓ cups of beef broth, bringing everything to a rolling boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender.
  7. Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and fold in 3 tablespoons of grated cheddar cheese.
  8. Top your beautifully melted Cajun Dirty Orzo with fresh thyme and, if desired, sliced red jalapeño. Serve it warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Watch the Orzo while it simmers; overcooking can lead to mushiness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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