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Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe

This Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet is an easy and flavorful weeknight dinner the entire family will enjoy. A combination of tender turkey meatballs and orzo, all brought together with fresh herbs, feta cheese, and a lemony kick, makes for a satisfying meal.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Greek Meatballs and Orzo Skillet Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

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Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey or chicken
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons grated onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced or grated
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

For the Orzo:

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced or grated
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup diced roasted red peppers
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra feta cheese for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Make the Meatballs:  
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients. Use your hands to mix, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
    • Lightly oil your hands and scoop out approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture, rolling it into a ball. Place the meatballs on a plate.
  2. Cook the Meatballs:  
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, swirl it around to coat the bottom of the skillet.
    • Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate, covering with foil to keep warm.
  3. Prepare the Orzo:  
    • In the same skillet, wipe out any leftover bits, then heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and orzo, stirring to toast the orzo for about 1 minute.
    • Add the chicken broth, roasted red peppers, and lemon juice. Stir well and bring to a boil.
    • Reduce the heat and cook the orzo for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  4. Finish the Dish:  
    • Once the orzo is tender, stir in the kalamata olives, dill, and parsley. Top with the cooked meatballs, then sprinkle with feta cheese and extra herbs.
  5. Serve:  
    • Serve immediately, garnishing with additional feta cheese if desired.
Nutrition
Calories: 494 kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 6g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 137mg | Sodium: 1147mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g
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