Name: Steak and Caramelized Onion Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound sirloin steak; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion; 1 medium red onion; 1 tablespoon garlic; 1 cup orzo; 2 ½ cups beef broth; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley

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When you think of cozy weeknight dinners, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of Steak and Caramelized Onion Orzo to satisfy your cravings. Imagine the rich aroma of steak searing on the stove, blending with the sweet scent of caramelized onions. This dish is a joyous medley of tender sirloin cubes mingling with creamy orzo, offering a dish that’s equal parts indulgent and comforting.

Table of Contents

Why This Is The Best Steak and Caramelized Onion Orzo Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Steak and Caramelized Onion Orzo
Tips for Success
Serve It With
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Tips & Variations
Recipe FAQs
Steak and Caramelized Onion Orzo

I remember hosting a dinner party a few winters ago, and I wanted to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. This dish was my saving grace, striking the perfect balance between sophistication and simplicity. As my friends and family gathered around the table, the hearty flavors and creamy texture left everyone wanting more. Whether you’re making this for a special occasion or just a busy weeknight, it embodies a sense of warmth that draws people together.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make this delicious all-in-one meal that’s sure to become a favorite!

Why This Is The Best Steak and Caramelized Onion Orzo Recipe

Let’s chat about why this recipe stands out. First off, the preparation is incredibly straightforward—preparing this feast takes just about 15 minutes. And the flavor? Oh my goodness, it’s an irresistible combination of savory steak, sweet caramelized onions, and creamy Parmesan orzo that dances on your taste buds. The vibrant contrast of colors comes together beautifully, making it a feast for the eyes as well. Plus, you can put this dish on the table for any occasion, be it a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or even a comforting meal on a rainy evening. It’s friendly to several dietary preferences and can be easily adapted, ensuring that everyone can enjoy every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound sirloin steak: Cut into 1-inch cubes, this cut is perfect for quick searing, providing tenderness and flavor.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the steak, it enhances the meat’s natural flavor.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: This adds a subtle kick to the dish.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for cooking, it adds richness to the orzo and the steak.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Ideal for searing the steak, it has a higher smoke point.
1 medium yellow onion: Sliced thin, the sweetness from caramelizing this onion will elevate the dish’s flavor.
1 medium red onion: Adds depth of flavor and color contrast to the dish.
1 tablespoon garlic: Freshly minced, garlic enhances the savory profile of the dish.
1 cup orzo: This small pasta cooks quickly and has a delightful creamy texture when prepared.
2 ½ cups beef broth: Provides a rich, flavorful base for the orzo cooking process.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and depth of flavor to the dish.
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese: Grated, this cheese brings creaminess and a salty element.
Fresh parsley: Chopped and used as a garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness to each serving.

When gathering your ingredients, using the freshest steak and onions will significantly enhance the dish. Also, don’t hesitate to experiment with different pasta types if orzo isn’t readily available!

How to Make Steak and Caramelized Onion Orzo

Pat and Season the Steak

Begin by patting the steak bites dry with paper towels, which helps achieve a nice sear. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Letting them rest at room temperature for a few minutes allows the seasoning to seep in, ensuring great flavor when cooked.

Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced yellow and red onions. You’ll want to cook these gently for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Patience is key here; the goal is to achieve that deeply golden brown color, signifying their sweetness. If they start to stick, simply add a splash of water, allowing them to soften and deepen in flavor.

Add Garlic and Set Aside

Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. This brief step is crucial for maximizing flavor. Once fragrant, transfer the caramelized onions to a bowl and let them rest while you focus on the steak and orzo.

Sear the Steak

Return to the skillet over medium-high heat, adding the remaining butter and olive oil. Once melted and shimmering, add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer (you can cook in batches if needed). Sear for 1 ½ to 2 minutes, resisting the urge to move them around until it’s time to flip. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes or until the steak reaches your desired doneness. Remove them from the skillet, tenting loosely with foil to rest.

Cook the Orzo

In the same skillet (do not wipe it clean!), reduce the heat to medium and add the uncooked orzo. Stir well, coating it with the flavorful remnants left in the skillet. Pour in the beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, occasionally stirring. The orzo should absorb most of the liquid and become tender.

Combine the Flavors

Once the orzo is cooked, stir the caramelized onion mixture back into the skillet. Add grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything comes together in a creamy, luxurious consistency.

Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy Steak and Caramelized Onion Orzo into bowls. Top with the rested steak bites and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired.

Each bite is rich, savory, and undeniably comforting!

Tips for Success

Avoid Overcrowding the Skillet: When searing the steak, cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will cause the meat to steam rather than sear.
Monitor Onion Color: Keep an eye on the onions while caramelizing; you want them golden and sweet, not burnt.
Don’t Rush the Orzo Cooking: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If it looks dry too soon, you can add a splash more broth or water.
Let the Steak Rest: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.

Serve It With

For a complete meal, consider pairing this dish with a side salad drizzled in balsamic vinaigrette, or some roasted seasonal vegetables to add color and nutrients. A light, crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness of the orzo while enhancing the flavors of the steak, making for an inviting dining experience.

How To Store & Reheat Leftovers

Room Temperature: Leftovers can sit out for no more than 2 hours.
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just be sure it’s completely cooled first.
Freezing: You can freeze the orzo dish for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out. Heat until warm throughout, around 5 minutes on medium heat.
Quality Notes: The texture may change slightly after freezing, but a splash of broth during reheating will help restore its creamy consistency.

Tips & Variations

Flavor Swaps: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary when cooking the orzo for an herbaceous twist.
Dietary Modifications: This dish can easily be made gluten-free by substituting orzo with gluten-free pasta. For a dairy-free version, opt for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Seasonal Adaptations: Add in seasonal vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
Texture Variations: For added crunch, toss in toasted nuts or seeds just before serving. They will create an exciting contrast against the creamy orzo.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different kind of steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin offers tenderness and flavor, cuts like ribeye or flank steaks will also work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness and desired doneness.

What can I substitute for beef broth?
If you prefer, vegetable broth or chicken broth can easily replace the beef broth, offering a lighter flavor while still maintaining a delightful base.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the caramelized onions and steak ahead of time, storing them separately. When ready to serve, cook the orzo and combine everything for a quick, comforting meal.

How can I boost the creaminess?
For an extra creamy texture, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese right before serving.

There you have it! Enjoy making this delightful dish that so effortlessly blends flavors and textures, and make it your own with variations that suit your taste. Happy cooking!

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