When the days get cooler and you crave a hearty, warming dish, this Easy Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect combination of protein-packed meatballs, tender beans, and chewy orzo simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy.

I first whipped up this stew on a chilly Sunday afternoon. The idea was simple: I wanted something hearty and filling but without the heaviness of traditional stews. Combining meatballs with orzo and white beans created a dish that felt both comforting and light—a meal that quickly became a family favorite.

What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility. You can customize the meatballs, swap out the beans, or even toss in some extra veggies. The result? A flavorful stew that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this stew is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and delivers big on flavor. Let’s dive into this Easy Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans and bring some warmth to your table.

Quick Overview in Todd Wilbur’s Style

This Easy Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans is a one-pot meal that combines tender, homemade meatballs with creamy white beans and perfectly cooked orzo. A savory broth ties it all together, creating a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting.

What makes this recipe a winner is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, you can have a delicious and wholesome meal on the table in under an hour. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or enjoy it on its own, this stew is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why My Family Loves This Stew

I remember the first time I made this stew for my family. The aroma of simmering meatballs and herbs filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in long before dinner was ready. My husband loved the heartiness of the dish, while my kids couldn’t get enough of the orzo and creamy beans.

Now, it’s a regular on our dinner rotation—especially on busy nights when I need something quick, filling, and easy to prepare. It’s become one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for bringing the family together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Meatball Stew

Comforting, Flavorful, and Versatile

• Tender Meatballs: Juicy and seasoned to perfection.
• Creamy White Beans: Add a satisfying, hearty texture.
• Chewy Orzo: Soaks up the flavorful broth for an irresistible bite.
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.

What You Need for Easy Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Stew:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or Parmesan for garnish

How to Make Easy Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans

1. Prepare the Meatballs
   In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Sear the Meatballs
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
   In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Simmer the Stew
   Pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the thyme, basil, and meatballs. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Cook the Orzo
   Stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Add the white beans and simmer for 2–3 more minutes to warm through.
6. Season and Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Perfect Meatball Stew

1. Don’t Overmix the Meatballs: Overmixing can make them tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
2. Customize the Vegetables: Add spinach, kale, or diced zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

• Protein Options: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for the meatballs.
• Grain Swaps: Substitute orzo with rice, quinoa, or small pasta like ditalini.
• Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for a pop of color and nutrients.

Make a Healthier Version

• Low-Carb: Skip the orzo and add more vegetables or use cauliflower rice.
• Lower-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and beans, and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Lean Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Closing Thoughts

And there you have it—Easy Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans, a hearty, flavorful dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve it with a side of crusty bread, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of a bowlful of comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans

Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors get even better with time. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this stew?
Absolutely! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding more broth if needed.

Can I use canned meatballs?
Yes, pre-made meatballs can save time, but homemade ones add a richer flavor.

What’s a good substitute for orzo?
Small pasta like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even broken spaghetti works well.

How do I prevent the orzo from getting mushy?
Cook the orzo just until al dente, and if reheating, add a splash of broth to revive the texture.

Can I add other beans?
Yes, cannellini beans or chickpeas are great alternatives.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding broth to loosen the consistency.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and swap orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and skip the meatballs, replacing them with tofu or extra beans.

What’s the serving size for this recipe?
This recipe serves 4–6 people, depending on portion sizes.

Can I add a splash of wine for flavor?
Absolutely! Deglaze the pot with white wine before adding the broth for extra depth.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, sear the meatballs and sauté the veggies first, then cook everything in a slow cooker on low for 4–6 hours.

Easy Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Soup Recipe, Weight watchers

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 egg

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• For the Stew:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried basil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or Parmesan for garnish

Directions

• Prepare the Meatballs
• In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
• Sear the Meatballs
• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
• Sauté the Vegetables
• In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
• Simmer the Stew
• Pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the thyme, basil, and meatballs. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
• Cook the Orzo
• Stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Add the white beans and simmer for 2–3 more minutes to warm through.
• Season and Serve
• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.