Description
Cajun Dirty Orzo is a flavorful one-pan dish inspired by the classic Cajun Dirty Rice. Combining ground beef, orzo pasta, and a blend of aromatic spices, this hearty and delicious meal is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying midweek dinner that even kids will love.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 shallots or 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 green bell peppers, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 1 tsp garlic & herb seasoning or garlic powder
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp salt
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef, lean mince preferred
- 1 ½ cups (300g) orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp tomato purée or concentrated tomato paste
- 3 ⅓ cups (800ml) beef broth or stock (made with two stock cubes)
Finish & Garnish
- 3 tbsp cheddar cheese, grated (plus extra for serving)
- 1 red jalapeño, sliced (optional, for serving)
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the butter and olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the diced shallots and green bell peppers, cooking gently for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and all the seasonings including Cajun seasoning, celery salt, garlic & herb seasoning, dried parsley, and salt.
- Brown the Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the pan. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until it is browned and cooked through.
- Add and Toast Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta, continuing to stir so the orzo lightly toasts and mixes well with the beef and vegetables.
- Simmer with Tomato and Broth: Mix in the tomato purée, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese and Garnish: Turn off the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish the dish with fresh thyme, and serve with sliced jalapeño and extra cheese for added heat and flavor.
Notes
- Cajun seasoning can be store-bought or homemade; adjust amount to taste if preferred less spicy.
- Using lean ground beef reduces fat content, making the dish lighter but still flavorful.
- Orzo can be substituted with other small pasta shapes if desired.
- Beef broth made from stock cubes works well, but homemade stock will enhance flavor.
- Sliced jalapeños or red chili flakes are optional but add a nice kick for those who enjoy spicy food.
