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Cozy Swedish Meatball Orzo – Best 30 Minute Easy Dinner

Swedish meatball orzo - featured image
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This creamy, savory Swedish meatball orzo comes together in one skillet in just 30 minutes. Tender meatballs, perfectly cooked orzo, and a rich sauce make it the ultimate weeknight comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  2. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 20-24). Set aside.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, add the uncooked orzo and stir for about 1 minute until lightly toasted.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet.
  6. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  7. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese until creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature dairy to prevent curdling. If the orzo looks dry before tender, add a splash of broth. Leftovers keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Swedish meatball orzo, one skillet dinner, 30 minute meal, creamy orzo, easy weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/cozy-swedish-meatball-orzo-best-30-minute-easy-dinner/