Swedish Meatball Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- dash nutmeg
- 1 clove garlic
diced
- 3 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup orzo
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Directions
- 1
Put the ground beef and onion in a medium to large saute pan and season with the garlic salt, pepper, onion powder, and nutmeg.
- 2
Break apart.
- 3
Add the diced garlic during the last 1 minute of cooking.
- 4
Add in the beef broth and orzo and reduce heat to medium-low.
- 5
Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- 6
Continue cooking and stirring until the orzo is tender.
- 7
Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream.
- 8
Serve hot with crusty bread and a green salad.
Swedish Meatball Orzo
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Based on 80 ratings
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About this Recipe
Craving the comforting flavors of Swedish Meatballs but looking for a simpler weeknight solution? This Swedish Meatball Orzo transforms your favorite savory classic into an easy, satisfying pasta dish that comes together quickly.
The brilliance of this recipe lies in delivering all the beloved tastes of traditional Swedish meatballs—rich, savory, and creamy—without the time-consuming effort of rolling individual meat spheres. By integrating lean ground beef directly with orzo pasta, you get a hearty, flavorful meal in a fraction of the time, making it perfect for busy evenings. This approach captures the essence of the dish with significantly less manual labor.
Prepare for a wonderfully comforting meal that marries tender orzo with well-seasoned ground beef, all enrobed in a rich, creamy sauce. You'll savor the familiar notes of onion and a subtle warmth from nutmeg, balanced beautifully by the tang of sour cream. This dish offers a satisfying texture and a deeply savory flavor profile that truly captures the essence of Swedish meatballs, all in one delightful bowl. It's an inviting, hearty dinner that feels both special and effortless to prepare.
While lean ground beef forms the heart of this dish, you can certainly explore variations. For a slightly different flavor profile, consider adding a handful of finely chopped mushrooms to the beef and onion mixture as it cooks. If you prefer a milder taste, adjust the dash of nutmeg to your liking. Don't have sour cream? While it's key for the traditional tang and creaminess, a splash of heavy cream could offer richness in a pinch, though the flavor will differ.
This Swedish Meatball Orzo is an ideal candidate for a cozy family dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening. Serve it simply with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh, crisp salad for a complete and satisfying experience.