If you’ve been craving a hearty yet vibrant Mediterranean meal that combines cozy comfort with bright, fresh flavors, you’re in for a treat with this Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe. It’s everything you love about juicy, tender meatballs infused with traditional Greek herbs and tangy feta, all nestled atop perfectly cooked orzo pasta that soaks up every drop of rich broth. The burst of cherry tomatoes and tender spinach at the end adds a lovely pop of color and freshness, making this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward and wholesome ingredients. Each element works in harmony to build layers of texture and flavor that feel both authentic and approachable.
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb: The juicy base that forms your flavorful meatballs; lamb boosts the Mediterranean flair.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy tang that’s signature to Greek cuisine.
- 1 egg: A natural binder to hold everything together perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of heat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for both browning meatballs and sautéing onions; keeps the dish rich and fragrant.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, savory base when cooked.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Tiny pasta pearls that soak up broth and flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that tenderizes the orzo.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brings juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup baby spinach: Adds freshness and a touch of earthiness, wilting gently at the end.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the whole dish with a fresh citrus zing.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Herbaceous garnish that enhances visual appeal and flavor.
- Extra feta for topping (optional): Add more creamy tang at the end if you love feta as much as I do!
How to Make Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Form the Meatballs
Start by combining ground beef or lamb with breadcrumbs, crumbled feta, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until just combined to ensure tender meatballs. Then roll the mixture into small, 1-inch diameter meatballs. This sizing lets them cook evenly and quicken the process later in the skillet.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully, making sure they’re spaced out. Brown each side for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning gently so all sides get a beautiful golden crust. This browning develops depth of flavor, so don’t rush! Once browned, remove the meatballs and set them aside for the next step.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Toast Orzo
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and release their natural sweetness. Then stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes. This step adds nuttiness to the orzo, enhancing its overall flavor and texture once cooked.
Step 4: Simmer Meatballs with Orzo
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Nestle the browned meatballs back into the skillet, cover with a lid, and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the orzo absorbs the flavorful broth while the meatballs finish cooking inside this cozy setup, making every bite irresistibly tender and savory.
Step 5: Add Fresh Veggies and Finish
Once the orzo is tender and the meatballs are cooked through, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and fresh lemon juice. Cook everything together for just 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes slightly soften, adding a bright freshness that balances the hearty meatballs exquisitely.
How to Serve Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
For garnish, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley brings an herbal lift and vivid color that makes the dish pop on the plate. I also love adding extra crumbled feta on top to double down on that creamy, tangy flavor which complements the richness of the meatballs perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish stands wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp Greek salad or a dollop of creamy tzatziki adds a refreshing contrast and cools down the robust flavors. Warm pita bread on the side also allows for mopping up every bit of the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, serve this Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe straight from the skillet for a rustic and casual feel. Alternatively, plating the meatballs neatly over a bed of orzo with vibrant veggies artistically arranged around makes for an elegant presentation worthy of any dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
If you want to save portions for later, freeze the cooked meatballs separately on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Orzo can also be frozen but tends to soften upon thawing, so it’s best to prepare fresh or freeze in small portions if necessary.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the orzo if needed. Microwave works fine too, just cover to retain moisture. A quick reheat restores all the lovely melded flavors just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb for this Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works perfectly if you prefer a lighter option. Just keep in mind the flavors will be a bit milder, so adding extra herbs or a pinch of spice can help boost the taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure the orzo you use is also gluten-free or switch to a gluten-free pasta alternative like rice or quinoa pasta.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Definitely! You can mix and form the meatballs a day before and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready, proceed with browning and continuing the recipe as usual.
What can I add for more Mediterranean flavor?
Additions like chopped kalamata olives, roasted artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes make wonderful Mediterranean enhancements. Just toss them in with the spinach and tomatoes near the end of cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe reheats wonderfully and makes for an excellent meal prep option. Portion it into containers for balanced, flavorful lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe, it’s going to become a cherished staple in your kitchen. It’s wonderfully comforting yet refreshingly bright, easy enough for weeknights but special enough for company. Give it a go and enjoy the perfect balance of textures, flavors, and colors all in one skillet—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek-Inspired
Description
This Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal combining tender meatballs with tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and vibrant Mediterranean herbs and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it balances savory ground beef or lamb with creamy feta and bright lemon juice, all cooked together in a single skillet for an easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Skillet & Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Extra feta for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix together the ground beef or lamb, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
- Form and brown the meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the meatballs. Cook them for 6–8 minutes, turning frequently to brown all sides evenly. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the onions and toast the orzo: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat and slightly brown the orzo.
- Simmer with broth and cook meatballs: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Nestle the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the orzo. Cover and let cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked.
- Add vegetables and finish: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes are warmed through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and extra crumbled feta cheese over the top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty Greek-inspired skillet meal.
Notes
- This dish can be made with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add kalamata olives or artichoke hearts to the skillet for an extra Mediterranean flavor boost.
- Serve alongside a refreshing Greek salad or tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.
