If you are looking for a comforting, rich, and utterly satisfying meal, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It’s a beautiful blend of tender ground beef, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a luscious tomato cream sauce that brings it all together with bright acidity and velvety texture. Every spoonful delivers comforting warmth and bold flavors that feel like a hug in a bowl, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients to make this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe are wonderfully simple yet each plays a crucial role in building robust flavors and delightful textures. From the savory ground beef to the creamy tomato sauce and the fresh burst of herbs, every component is essential.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that brings richness and protein to the dish.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps soften the onions deliciously.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a sweet and aromatic foundation when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts flavor with its fragrant and slightly spicy punch.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the sauce color and taste.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: Brings fresh tomato brightness and natural sweetness.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates a savory liquid base, infusing the orzo with meaty goodness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and creamy.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and Mediterranean flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese: Melts on top for that irresistible gooey finish.
- 1 cup fresh spinach or a handful of basil (optional): Adds freshness and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds—this quick step unlocks the wonderful aroma that forms the flavor base of the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef directly into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with your spoon or spatula and cook until the meat is completely browned with no pink spots left. Depending on how lean your beef is, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming oily.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and canned crushed tomatoes to the beef mixture. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors together and deepen the tomato richness.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Pour in the orzo pasta and beef broth next, stirring everything thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pan and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally while the orzo absorbs the flavorful liquid and becomes tender, soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce.
Step 5: Add Cream and Greens
Once the orzo is cooked through, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, which transforms the sauce into a velvety dream. If you want a pop of green and freshness, fold in fresh spinach or basil now and cook just until wilted to keep those vibrant flavors intact.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese Melt
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan evenly over the skillet. Cover the pan for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt perfectly, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that is simply irresistible. Serve the dish hot, optionally topping with extra cheese or herbs if you desire an added flavor kick.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes add a beautiful pop of color and brightness against the creamy tomato background. A drizzle of good olive oil or a squeeze of lemon can also lift the flavors wonderfully before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is perfect to soak up all that luscious sauce, making every bite an absolute delight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe in individual small skillets or ovenproof dishes topped with cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden. You can also turn it into stuffed bell peppers by mixing and filling, then baking for a festive presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it an excellent next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. Cool completely, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to bring the sauce back to creamy perfection. Alternatively, microwave in bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well in this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe. Just note they might be leaner and produce less fat, so you may want to add a bit more olive oil or butter for richness.
Is orzo pasta gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and use hearty mushrooms or plant-based crumbles instead. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the flavors aligned.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Greek yogurt stirred in off heat can also add creaminess with a tangy twist.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the orzo separately, then combine and reheat just before serving. This makes the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser with its comforting flavors, creamy sauce, and satisfying textures. It’s one of those meals that feels like home in every bite, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to dinner that everyone will request again and again!
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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender orzo pasta simmered with ground beef, rich tomato paste, and creamy heavy cream. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and topped with melted cheese and fresh spinach or basil, this dish offers a delightful balance of savory flavors and creamy texture. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, it combines the ease of stovetop cooking with a deliciously creamy tomato sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach or a handful of basil (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add Tomato Base: Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Cook Orzo: Add orzo pasta and beef broth to the skillet. Stir everything well, then bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Cream and Greens: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. If using, fold in fresh spinach or basil and cook just until wilted, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the creamy sauce.
- Melt Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs as desired for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a creamy plant-based alternative.
- Use gluten-free orzo to make this dish gluten-free if needed.
- Fresh herbs like basil or spinach add color and nutrition but are optional.
- Adjust salt and seasoning according to taste preferences.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger groups; just use a larger skillet or pot.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
