Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet

Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet is a vibrant, all-in-one meal featuring juicy, herb-packed meatballs nestled in a bed of tender orzo pasta, simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and Mediterranean spices. It’s comforting, full of fresh flavors, and comes together in a single pan—perfect for a weeknight dinner with a touch of Greek flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal means easy prep and cleanup
• Combines protein, carbs, and veggies in one dish
• Bursting with Mediterranean flavor from herbs, lemon, and garlic
• Family-friendly and highly customizable
• Ready in about 40 minutes
• Great for leftovers or meal prep
• Can be made with ground beef, turkey, lamb, or chicken
• Delicious served on its own or with a side salad

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or lamb (or ground chicken/turkey as a lighter option)
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Dried oregano
• Lemon zest
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Onion, chopped
• Orzo pasta
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh dill or mint (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

directions

1. In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until just combined. Form into small meatballs.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (they don’t need to be fully cooked through). Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté chopped onion until soft.
4. Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes and broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
6. Nestle the meatballs back into the skillet. Cover and cook on low heat for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with crumbled feta and fresh herbs.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use lamb for a more traditional Greek flavor.
• Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Swap orzo with couscous, rice, or quinoa if preferred.
• Stir in kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes for added tang.
• Make it dairy-free by omitting the feta or using a vegan alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the orzo.
You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked meatballs?

Yes, just add them during the simmering stage to heat through with the orzo.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Let cool completely and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What is orzo and can I substitute it?

Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta. You can substitute with small pasta shapes or even rice, though cooking times may vary.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, both work well and make the dish a bit lighter.

What should I serve with this dish?

It’s great on its own, but pairs well with a Greek salad, tzatziki, or warm pita bread.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based meatballs and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

They should be firm, browned on the outside, and reach an internal temp of 165°F.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the meatballs and chop the vegetables ahead. Assemble and cook when ready to eat.

Is it spicy?

No, but you can add chili flakes or cayenne to the meatballs for heat.

Can I add cheese other than feta?

Yes, try grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese for a different twist.

Conclusion

Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet is a flavorful, fuss-free meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. It’s wholesome, filling, and simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a reliable and delicious go-to.

Print