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Homemade 20-Minute Turkey Meatball Skillet with Orzo recipe photo

20-Minute Turkey Meatball Skillet with Orzo

This 20-Minute Turkey Meatball Skillet with Orzo is a quick, comforting one-pan meal loaded with tender meatballs, orzo, spinach, and cherry tomatoes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground turkey lean
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs helps bind the meatballs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds savory, nutty depth
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 egg beaten
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for browning and sautéing
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 cups spinach fresh
  • fresh basil for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, dried Italian herbs, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined without overmixing.
  2. Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning gently to brown all sides. Remove and set aside.
  4. Add the orzo to the skillet and stir in the leftover oil and browned bits for 1 minute to toast slightly. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, cover with lid, and simmer for 8 minutes until orzo is tender and broth mostly absorbed.
  6. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestle into the orzo, scatter the spinach over the top, cover again, and cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts and meatballs cook through.
  7. Remove skillet from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit Parmesan or use nutritional yeast.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheat gently with added broth to retain moisture.
  • Swap ground turkey with chicken or lean beef if preferred.
  • To make gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta alternatives.