If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Manestra is exactly what you need. This Greek-style orzo with ground beef combines tender, slightly toasted pasta with savory meat and a rich tomato sauce that simmers into pure deliciousness. Picture spoonfuls of tender orzo coated in a luscious, meaty sauce each bite bursting with Mediterranean sunshine. Trust me, this recipe is a total winner for weeknight dinners or whenever you want to impress with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef)

This recipe isn’t just about mixing orzo and beef it’s about savoring the simple, soulful flavors that make Greek cooking so irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, here’s why this dish stands out:

Versatile: Serve it as a hearty main or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ground beef without skimping on flavor.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with mostly one-pot cooking.
Customizable: Add veggies, swap meats, or spice it up to your liking.
Crowd-Pleasing: The tender orzo soaked in rich sauce is a guaranteed hit with all ages.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef)

Here’s the lineup that makes this Greek classic so tasty:

• Orzo pasta – Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks up tender and comforting.
• Ground beef – The rich, savory protein that forms the base of the sauce.
• Onion and garlic – Aromatics that build depth of flavor.
• Tomato paste and diced tomatoes – For a luscious, slightly tangy sauce.
• Beef broth or water – To cook the orzo right in the sauce.
• Olive oil – Adds richness and helps sauté ingredients.
• Salt, pepper, and dried oregano – Classic Greek seasonings to bring it all together.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and freshness when serving.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

No oven needed here just warm up your stovetop and grab a large skillet or saucepan.

Combine Ingredients

Heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Use a deep skillet or saucepan with a lid to allow the orzo to cook evenly in the sauce.

Assemble the Dish

Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth or water, then add the orzo pasta. Stir well to combine.

Cook to Perfection

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Finishing Touches

Remove from heat, fluff gently with a fork, and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm as a comforting main dish or alongside a crisp green salad and crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~350

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef)

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a refreshing crunch.
– Serve with warm pita bread or crusty baguette for dipping in the sauce.
– A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side adds creaminess and cool contrast.
– Roasted or steamed veggies, like green beans or asparagus, make a perfect complement.

Additional Tips

– Toast the orzo lightly in the olive oil before adding liquid for a nutty flavor.
– Substitute ground lamb or turkey for a different twist.
– Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
– Use low-sodium broth and adjust seasoning to taste.
– Leftovers reheat beautifully and taste even better the next day.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, omit the ground beef and use mushrooms or lentils for a hearty meat-free version.

2. Can I use instant orzo?
Regular orzo works best; instant may become mushy with the long simmer.

3. How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally and ensure enough liquid is used to cook the pasta fully.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats easily.

5. What cheese pairs well with Manestra?
Crumbled feta or grated Parmesan adds a salty, tangy finish.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly; reheat gently.

7. How spicy is this dish?
It’s mild but you can add chili flakes or pepper for some heat.

8. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Absolutely, it will still taste delicious.

9. What’s a good wine pairing?
A light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Assyrtiko pairs nicely.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional orzo contains gluten, but you can substitute gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

Manestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef) is a heartwarming dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, comforting meal. Its rich sauce, tender pasta, and classic Mediterranean seasoning make it a family favorite that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Greece right in your kitchen!

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