This Best Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe is a simple and tasty dish that brings together tender ground turkey, tiny orzo pasta, and a mix of fresh veggies all cooked in one pan. It’s a quick meal with a great balance of flavors and textures, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but not complicated.
I love how the ground turkey cooks up so nicely with garlic and onions, giving the whole dish a nice savory base without being too heavy. The orzo adds a fun, chewy bite that makes each spoonful interesting, and the little pops of tomatoes and herbs brighten everything up. I often add a sprinkle of parmesan on top to bring it all together—such a small step that makes a big difference!
When I serve this, I usually pair it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a quick and balanced meal. It also reheats really well, so I like to make a bigger batch and have leftovers for the next day. It’s the kind of recipe that feels cozy but fresh at the same time, and everyone in my family asks for seconds!
Bake, Serve, Wear the Vibe 👕
Editor-picked tees our Oven To Fork readers love.
We may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat keeps the dish light and healthy. If you want more flavor, mix in some ground chicken or lean ground beef. For a plant-based option, try crumbled firm tofu or cooked lentils.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice bite here because it’s small and cooks quickly. You can swap with another small pasta like acini di pepe or even couscous if needed.
Bell Peppers and Onion: These add sweetness and crunch. If you don’t have bell peppers, zucchini or chopped carrots work well too. I like to keep the veggies colorful for a fresh look.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika add warmth without overpowering the dish. Feel free to adjust amounts or swap paprika with smoked paprika for a slightly smoky flavor.
Cheese: Melted cheddar or Mexican blend cheese adds creaminess and a mild sharpness. Use mozzarella for a gooier texture or omit for dairy-free versions.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly Without It Getting Mushy?
Orzo can easily overcook and become mushy if not watched carefully. Here’s how I handle it:
- After adding orzo and liquid, keep the heat low and cover the skillet. This traps steam and helps cook pasta evenly.
- Check the orzo towards the end of cooking. It should be tender but still a bit firm to the bite (al dente).
- Stir the pan occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
- If the liquid absorbs too quickly and orzo isn’t done, add a splash of broth or water and continue cooking briefly.
By watching the orzo closely and controlling heat, you get perfectly cooked pasta that holds its shape and texture in the dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet or sauté pan – Perfect for cooking turkey and orzo all in one pan without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Great for breaking up the ground turkey and stirring ingredients gently.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To keep your spice and liquid amounts just right.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
- Lid for skillet – Helps steam the orzo as it cooks, making it tender and fluffy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef if you want a different protein flavor.
- Add chopped spinach or kale near the end of cooking for a boost of greens and nutrients.
- Mix in a handful of black beans or corn to add extra texture and mild sweetness.
- Try feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangier, creamier finish.
Best Ground Turkey Orzo Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and/or green)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and/or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of active prep and cooking time, plus a little waiting as the orzo simmers and the cheese melts—about 15 to 20 minutes total. It’s quick and easy for a weeknight meal that’s ready in under half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, and cook until they get soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you smell its wonderful aroma.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking and stirring until the meat is browned and there’s no pink left.
3. Add Spices and Liquids:
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the turkey and veggies. Stir everything together well. Then pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a nice simmer.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Check every now and then, stirring gently to stop the orzo from sticking. It’s done when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Melt the Cheese and Garnish:
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top. Cover the skillet again for 2 to 3 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped cilantro or parsley over the dish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to completely thaw the turkey beforehand by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps it cook evenly and prevents extra moisture in the dish.
Can I Substitute Orzo with Another Pasta?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like couscous, acini di pepe, or even small shells work well. Just keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster or slower than orzo.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the turkey mixture and orzo separately, then combine and melt the cheese when ready to serve. This keeps the pasta from overcooking during storage.
🛒 Tools We Used (Make Cooking Easier!)
*As an Amazon Associate, OvenToFork may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you.
