One-Pot Beef Giouvetsi

Classic One-Pot Beef Giouvetsi – Your New Favorite Comfort Food

Hello there! I can’t wait to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you: One-Pot Beef Giouvetsi. This classic Greek dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! The combination of tender beef, simple spices, and orzo pasta creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Plus, the best part is, it all comes together in one pot, making clean-up a breeze!

Nutritional Benefits of Beef Giouvetsi

Let’s talk about why this dish is not only delicious but also pretty nutritious. The beef stew meat is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in our bodies. Plus, it’s filled with iron that helps keep our energy levels up!

The veggies in here, like carrots and onions, are packed with vitamins and minerals. Carrots provide a good dose of beta-carotene, which is great for your eyes, while onions can help support your immune system. Finally, the orzo pasta provides some carbohydrates that give us the energy needed to power through our day. So, while you’re enjoying a bowl of cozy Giouvetsi, you’re also nourishing your body!

Adaptable Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, I’ve got some fun ideas for you:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for chickpeas or lentils! Just sauté them longer to develop a depth of flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Simply substitute the orzo for gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in some spinach or bell peppers towards the end for added color and nutrients.

Easy One-Pot Beef Giouvetsi Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45–55 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes – 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4–5 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups orzo pasta (or similar pasta)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by chopping the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces and dicing the onion and carrots.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and carrots, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Brown the Beef: Add the beef stew meat to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Combine with Liquids: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
7. Add Orzo: Once the beef is tender, stir in the orzo pasta. Continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as necessary.
9. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Optionally, serve with grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
10. Enjoy: Serve hot as a comforting one-pot meal and enjoy the classic flavors of Greek Giouvetsi!

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Want to make sure your beef is super tender? Let it simmer slowly and don’t rush this process!
• If you like a saucier dish, feel free to add an extra cup of beef broth when adding the orzo.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—great for meal prepping!
• If you’re looking for a quick reheat, the microwave works well! Just splash a little extra broth to keep it from drying out.
• Always taste before serving! It’s a simple step that can make sure the flavors are just right.

Equipment Needed

Here’s a quick list of the tools you’ll need to whip up this delicious meal:

• A large pot or Dutch oven
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• A cutting board and knife for prepping ingredients
• A measuring cup for the broth and pasta
• A ladle for serving—got to dish out those hearty portions!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different cuts of beef? Yes! Chuck roast or brisket would also work well, just keep in mind cook times may vary.
2. Is it normal for the pasta to absorb a lot of liquid? Yes! Pasta will soak up that good flavor, so don’t worry if it seems thicker, just add a splash of broth.
3. Can I freeze this dish for later? Absolutely! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It could last up to 3 months in the freezer.
4. What can I do if my dish is too salty? You can add a little sugar or more tomatoes to balance it out. Another trick is to add some raw potato slices, which will absorb excess salt.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded!

Let’s Wrap It Up!

Now that you have this delightful One-Pot Beef Giouvetsi recipe up your sleeve, I hope you give it a try! Trust me, the cozy, rich flavors will have your loved ones asking for seconds. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Don’t forget to tag me on Pinterest or Instagram to share your successful cooking adventures. Happy cooking, friend!