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One-Pan Herb Meatballs and Lemon Orzo for Cozy Dinners

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A cozy, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender herb meatballs simmered in creamy, lemony orzo with bright herbs and fresh spinach.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey or ground chicken
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or oregano)
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 16 ounces dry orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or dairy-free substitute
  • Additional chopped herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine ground meat, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently and shape into small meatballs.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add butter or olive oil to the skillet. Sauté onion and mushrooms until softened.
  4. Add dry orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Pour in broth and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Nestle browned meatballs into the skillet, partially submerged.
  7. Cover and cook until orzo is tender and meatballs are cooked through.
  8. Add spinach, lemon zest, fresh herbs, and Parmesan. Stir until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

Toast the orzo for best flavor and texture. Add extra broth if the mixture thickens too much while cooking.

Find it online: https://www.lylyrecipes.com/one-pan-herb-meatballs-lemon-orzo/