Description
Quick Ground Turkey Orzo is a creamy, one-pan dinner that brings together lean ground turkey, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant broccoli for a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. Infused with lemon, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan, it’s a bright yet comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Minimal cleanup, wholesome ingredients, and restaurant-level flavor make this skillet recipe a true kitchen lifesaver.
Ingredients
-
340 g (12 oz) broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
-
15 ml (1 tbsp) olive oil (for broccoli)
-
7.5 ml (1/2 tbsp) olive oil (for turkey)
-
450 g (1 lb) extra lean ground turkey
-
220 g (1 1/3 cups) orzo pasta
-
2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
-
2 tsp Dijon mustard
-
60 ml (1/4 cup) lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
-
600 ml (2 1/2 cups) chicken broth
-
28 g (2 tbsp) butter
-
240 ml (1 cup) milk (any kind)
-
56 g (2 oz) shredded Parmesan cheese
-
Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
Instructions
-
Sauté the broccoli: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook broccoli for 5–6 minutes until bright green and slightly charred. Set aside in the pan.
-
Cook the turkey: Add ½ tbsp olive oil and ground turkey to the same skillet. Break apart and cook until no longer pink.
-
Toast the orzo: Push turkey to one side; add orzo and toast 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
-
Add flavor: Stir in lemon pepper, Dijon, and lemon juice. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth, scraping up browned bits, then add remaining broth.
-
Simmer: Cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid absorbed.
-
Make it creamy: Lower the heat and stir in butter, milk, and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
-
Serve: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired and enjoy warm.
Notes
Toasting the orzo adds a deep, nutty flavor—don’t skip it!
Adjust consistency by adding more broth or milk as needed.
Whole milk or half-and-half enhances creaminess.
For extra veggies, stir in spinach, peas, or mushrooms near the end.
Store leftovers for 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan / Skillet
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-Inspired