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This one-pot orzo skillet with meatballs is pure cozy comfort food. The creamy pasta and tender meatballs just melt in your mouth. You'll barely need any effort, and it's easy to tweak for all kinds of tastes.
Tasty and flexible
This dish is awesome with mashed potatoes or crispy baguette on the side. For a meatless version, I like using plant-based mince or falafel balls. The creamy orzo sauce really makes everything come alive.
Here's what's inside
- Meatballs: 1 onion, 1 egg, 250 g ground meat, seasoning, 1 teaspoon mustard
- Pot: 1 carrot, 150 g orzo, 80 g peas, 125 g herb cream cheese, 100 ml cream, double the water for pasta
How to whip it up
- Balls
- Form meatballs by combining minced meat, egg, onion, mustard, and spices, then fry them till browned.
- Pasta
- Sauté orzo for a bit, then simmer with carrot, peas, and water.
- Sauce
- Stir in cream and cheese, cook till everything's creamy and smooth.
- Finish
- Add meatballs back so they soak up flavor, then you're good to go.
Swap it your way
If you want something lighter, try regular cream cheese instead of melting cheese. Toss in bell pepper, garlic, or fresh herbs to switch up the flavors. Use veggie mince or falafel to go meat-free.
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Only one pan needed
Since it all cooks in one skillet, cleanup's easy and you get to relax more. Creamy sauce, soft pasta, and tasty meatballs together just bring a smile to your face.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What are orzo noodles?
Orzo, also called Kritharaki, are small noodles shaped like rice grains. They're made from durum wheat and common in Mediterranean food.
- → Can I swap the ground meat?
Sure, you can use just beef or pork if you don't want mixed meat. Use your same spices as before.
- → How long does this stay good?
It'll keep in the fridge for 2-3 days. Add a splash of cream or water when you reheat since the pasta thickens up.
- → What other veggies go well?
Pepper, zucchini, or broccoli are great. Just pick what you like and change the cooking time if needed.
- → Can I skip the processed cheese?
You can use shredded cheese with some cream cheese if you'd rather. The sauce won't be quite as creamy, but it'll still be yummy.