Quick Ground Turkey Orzo with Broccoli and Lemon Recipe
This Quick Ground Turkey Orzo recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender broccoli, lean ground turkey, and creamy orzo pasta. Sautéed broccoli is lightly charred for smoky depth, browned ground turkey adds savory protein, and nutty toasted orzo simmers in a lemon pepper-infused broth. A luscious finish of butter, milk, and parmesan brings this dish together in a rich, creamy texture. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner that feels both homely and vibrant.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 12 ounces broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces
Protein
- 1 pound extra lean ground turkey
Grains
- 1 and 1/3 cups orzo (220 grams)
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 and 1/2 cups chicken broth (plus 1 cup additional chicken broth for total 2 and 1/2 cups)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 ounces shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
Oils and Condiments
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- Red pepper flakes, to serve
Instructions
- Prepare and Sauté the Broccoli: Cut 12 ounces of broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add the broccoli and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until slightly charred and vibrant green, creating a smoky flavor.
- Cook the Ground Turkey: Add an additional 1/2 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Add 1 pound of extra lean ground turkey and brown, breaking it apart as it cooks until fully cooked through. Push turkey to one side of the skillet to make room for the next step.
- Toast the Orzo: Add 1 and 1/3 cups (220 grams) orzo to the empty side of the skillet. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and slightly golden to enhance nutty flavor.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add 1 and 1/2 cups more chicken broth for a total of 2 and 1/2 cups. Stir and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until orzo is tender and broth is absorbed. Optionally substitute 1 cup broth with water if sensitive to salt.
- Cream and Cheese Addition: Reduce heat and add 2 tablespoons butter, 1 cup milk, and 2 ounces shredded parmesan. Fold until butter and cheese melt and mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
- Incorporate Broccoli and Serve: Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet and gently mix to combine evenly into the creamy orzo and turkey mixture. Serve warm, topped with additional shredded parmesan and red pepper flakes for extra flavor if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey with chicken or a plant-based ground alternative if desired.
- For a lower sodium version, replace 1 cup broth with water as suggested in the recipe.
- Adding red pepper flakes adds a nice heat but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- This dish reheats well making it great for meal prep lunches or dinners.
Keywords: ground turkey orzo, quick dinner, one pan meal, creamy orzo, healthy weeknight dinner, broccoli and turkey recipe
