Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, you’ve come to the right place! Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet is a family favorite in our home. It’s one of those recipes that not only fills bellies but also warms hearts. The combination of tender meatballs and fluffy orzo, all infused with zesty flavors, makes this dish special. Plus, it’s perfect for everything from casual dinners to family gatherings!

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a wholesome dinner ready in no time. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful Greek-inspired meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: This recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids rave about these tasty meatballs and creamy orzo—there’s something for everyone!
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the meatballs in advance, and you can throw this dish together even faster.
• Packed with flavor: Fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and savory feta create a delicious experience with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! The best part about Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet is that it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey or chicken
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh leaf parsley
• 3 tablespoons grated onion
• 1 clove garlic (grated or minced)
• Zest of a lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Skillet

• 2 ounces feta cheese (crumbled)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic (grated or minced)
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup diced roasted red peppers
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
• Extra feta cheese for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground beef or lamb instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini during the cooking process for added nutrition.
• Change up the grains: If you’re not a fan of orzo, feel free to use quinoa or couscous as an alternative!
• Spice it up: Incorporate some red pepper flakes if your family enjoys a little heat!

How to Make Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by adding all of the meatball ingredients to a mixing bowl. Use your hands to gently combine everything—just be careful not to overmix! Coat your hands with a bit of oil and scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture. Roll it into a ball and set them aside on a plate. This step is essential as it helps keep the meatballs tender!

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, swirl the oil around so it coats the bottom well. Gently place your meatballs in the skillet, cooking them for about 8-10 minutes while turning often for even browning. This method gives them that beautiful golden crust while keeping them juicy inside! Once cooked through, transfer them back to the plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Now wipe out the skillet if needed and add two teaspoons of olive oil along with minced garlic and uncooked orzo over medium heat. Stir everything together and toast the orzo for about a minute until it’s lightly golden—it adds such an amazing nutty flavor! Pour in low sodium chicken broth, diced roasted red peppers, and fresh lemon juice. Mix well and bring everything to a boil.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Allow the orzo to cook until it’s tender—about 7-8 minutes should do it! Remember to stir often so nothing sticks to the bottom of your skillet. When done, stir in kalamata olives along with your fresh herbs for an explosion of flavor! Finally, nestle those beautiful meatballs right on top of the orzo mixture and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese along with some extra herbs.

There you have it—a delightful dish packed with flavor that’s sure to become a staple at your dinner table! Enjoy every bite of your Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet

Cooking is all about making each meal a little better, and these tips will help you elevate your Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet to perfection!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, and lemon zest add a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. They brighten up the dish and make it more aromatic.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients just until mixed for tender, juicy bites.
• Toast the orzo: Giving the orzo a quick toast in olive oil before adding broth enhances its nutty flavor, making your dish even more delicious.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different; don’t hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice levels to suit your family’s preference for a perfect balance of flavors.
• Cover while cooking: If you’re finding that your orzo is cooking unevenly, covering the skillet can help trap steam for even cooking while keeping everything moist.

How to Serve Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet

Presenting this delightful dish with creativity can make it even more enjoyable for your family! Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Extra feta cheese: A sprinkle of additional crumbled feta not only adds flavor but also presents a lovely texture contrast.
• Fresh herbs: A handful of freshly chopped parsley or dill on top gives a pop of color and freshness that is visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives dressed in olive oil and lemon juice provides a bright counterpart to the meatballs.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant tossed in olive oil create a wholesome addition with complementary flavors.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic can serve as a cool dip for the meatballs, enhancing their Mediterranean charm.
• Pita Bread: Soft pita bread makes an excellent side for scooping up the meatballs and orzo, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to every bite.

Enjoy your delicious Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience you can share with those you love. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storag

This Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or for those who love to plan ahead. You can easily store the leftovers, freeze portions for later, and reheat them without losing flavor!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Ensure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey or chicken in the Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet?

Absolutely! Ground beef can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

How do I make Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace panko breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Also, ensure your broth is gluten-free.

What can I serve with Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh Greek salad or some warm pita bread for a complete meal!

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time for Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day ahead and store them covered in the fridge. Just cook them when you’re ready to enjoy your meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to bring family together around the table. With its delightful flavors and comforting aroma, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!