Cajun Orzo Beef Skillet (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 1 tbsp butter
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - 2 shallots or 1 onion, finely diced
04 - 2 green bell peppers, finely diced
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 500g lean ground beef

→ Seasonings

07 - 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
08 - 1 tsp celery salt
09 - 1 tsp garlic & herb seasoning or garlic powder
10 - 2 tsp dried parsley
11 - ½ tsp salt

→ Pasta & Liquids

12 - 300g orzo pasta
13 - 2 tbsp tomato purée (concentrated tomato paste)
14 - 800ml beef broth

→ Toppings

15 - 3 tbsp grated cheddar cheese, plus extra for serving
16 - 1 red jalapeño, sliced (optional)
17 - Fresh thyme, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Heat butter and oil in a chef pan. Add diced shallots and peppers, cooking over medium-low heat for 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and all seasonings until fragrant.
03 - Increase heat, add ground beef, breaking it up while browning. Add orzo and stir until beef is browned and pasta starts toasting.
04 - Mix in tomato paste, then pour in beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer.
05 - Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
06 - Turn off heat, stir in cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
07 - Garnish with fresh thyme, extra cheese, and sliced jalapeños if desired.

# Notes:

01 - For a creamier texture, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end of cooking.

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