GROUND BEEF ORZO WITH TOMATO CREAM SAUCE
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This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a hearty, one-pot dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender orzo, juicy ground beef, and rich, creamy tomato sauce come together in a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s simple yet delicious, making it a must-try for anyone craving a cozy, home-cooked meal. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
In our household, pasta nights are always a hit, but this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce has quickly become the ultimate favorite. One evening, I decided to whip this up when we were short on time but still wanted something comforting and satisfying. My husband and kids fell in love at first bite! The rich, creamy sauce clinging to each piece of orzo with the savory ground beef makes every spoonful simply irresistible. Now, it’s a staple in our weekly dinner rotation. It’s amazing how a simple, one-pot dish can bring so much joy to our dinner table!
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Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup required – everything cooks in a single pot!
- Rich & Creamy: The tomato cream sauce adds a luxurious touch to the orzo and beef.
- Versatile: Easy to adapt with your favorite veggies or protein swaps.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy tomato sauce and tender pasta make it a family favorite.
Ingredients Notes for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Orzo: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
- Tomato Sauce: Choose a good quality tomato sauce for a rich, savory base.
- Heavy Cream: Adds a creamy richness to the tomato sauce. You can use half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Garlic & Onion: These aromatics form the flavor base of the dish.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional) give the dish a burst of flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but adds a delightful salty, nutty finish.
Recipe Steps for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
- Add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 3: Add the Orzo
- Stir in 1 cup of orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to toast lightly.
Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce
- Pour in 2 cups of tomato sauce and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Cook the Orzo
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the orzo cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 6: Add the Cream
- Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and coats the orzo and beef. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
Step 7: Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
- Protein: Swap the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor.
- Veggies: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the cooking process for extra nutrition and color.
- Cheese: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar for an extra cheesy version.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
GROUND BEEF ORZO WITH TOMATO CREAM SAUCE
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Cream: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir in the heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine with Orzo: Stir in the cooked orzo and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until everything is combined and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm with additional Parmesan cheese on the side.
