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Ground Turkey Orzo Skillet

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This easy ground turkey orzo skillet is a hearty, healthy, one-pan dinner packed with lean protein, veggies, and creamy orzo—all ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s comforting, customizable, and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1 small zucchini, chopped (optional)
  • 2 cups baby spinach, packed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your veggies: Dice the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Mince the garlic. Gather spinach and open the can of tomatoes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Let it shimmer but not smoke.
  3. Add ground turkey. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for 4-5 minutes until no longer pink. Spoon off excess liquid if needed.
  4. Add diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until veggies are softened and fragrant.
  5. Stir in orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring so it doesn’t stick, until slightly golden and nutty-smelling.
  6. Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Scrape any browned bits from the pan.
  7. Stir well, bring to a gentle boil, then lower heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes so the orzo doesn’t stick. Add more broth or water if mixture gets too thick.
  8. Uncover and stir in baby spinach. Let it wilt for 1-2 minutes.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes until melted.
  10. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo or short-grain rice and adjust liquid and cooking time. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based shreds. Add extra veggies like peas, kale, or mushrooms as desired. If orzo is too firm, add more broth and cook a few minutes longer. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey, orzo, skillet dinner, one pan, easy dinner, weeknight meal, healthy, Italian, family friendly, 30 minute meal

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/ground-turkey-orzo-skillet-recipe-easy-30-minute-dinner-idea/