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Greek Meatballs Orzo Skillet: A Delicious One-Pan Recipe

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Flavorful Greek meatballs simmered in a vibrant orzo skillet with tomatoes, chickpeas, and feta. A complete and satisfying one-pan meal!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground lamb (or a mix of lamb and beef)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for browning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground lamb (or lamb and beef), breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, egg, parsley, mint, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix.
  2. Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1-inch in diameter (about 20-24 meatballs). Place on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Brown Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in a single layer (in batches if needed). Brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  5. Add Vegetables: Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Incorporate Tomatoes and Chickpeas: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the drained and rinsed chickpeas. Bring to a simmer.
  7. Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Ensure the orzo is submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally.
  8. Nestle Meatballs: Gently nestle the browned meatballs into the orzo mixture.
  9. Simmer Together: Cover the skillet and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the flavors have melded.
  10. Check Seasoning: Taste the orzo mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
  12. Serve Immediately: Serve the Greek Meatballs Orzo Skillet immediately with lemon wedges on the side (optional).

Notes

  • Meatball Variations: Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for lamb. Add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
  • Vegetable Variations: Eggplant, zucchini, spinach, or artichoke hearts can be added to the orzo skillet.
  • Cheese Variations: Goat cheese or Parmesan cheese can be substituted for feta cheese.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also chop the vegetables ahead of time.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Find it online: https://anasrecipes.com/greek-meatballs-orzo-skillet/