Simple Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Simple Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight! 🍝🍅😋

1. Introduction

Looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love? This ground beef orzo recipe with a creamy tomato sauce is the perfect solution for busy weeknights! It’s a delightful twist on classic comfort food, combining the simplicity of ground beef with the delicate texture of orzo pasta, all enveloped in a rich and flavorful tomato cream sauce. Whether you call it a beef orzo dish or creamy orzo with beef, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. This one-pot wonder minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Consider this a fantastic option for a quick dinner or even a fulfilling lunch.

2. Why This Ground Beef Orzo Recipe Works

This ground beef orzo recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your liking by adding different vegetables or spices. Second, the orzo tomato cream sauce is the star of the show, providing a creamy and tangy counterpoint to the savory beef. Third, it’s a complete meal in one pot, reducing both cooking time and cleanup. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of ground beef, orzo, and the creamy tomato sauce creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and comforting. Every bite is a delightful experience, making it a winner for both cooks and diners. If you are looking for more recipes? We’ve got you covered.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make this delicious dish. It’s easier than you might think!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step builds a crucial flavor base for the entire dish. Be sure to break the beef up really well!

Step 2: Add Orzo and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and orzo pasta into the skillet with the browned beef. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. This is where the magic happens! The orzo soaks up all the delicious flavors from the beef, tomatoes, and broth. Keep an eye on the liquid levels and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined. The sauce should be creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This step adds richness and depth to the sauce. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra Parmesan if you’re a cheese lover! For a richer flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Serve the ground beef orzo recipe hot. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. This dish is delicious on its own or served with a side salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat, or a dollop of ricotta cheese can provide extra creaminess.

5. Tips and Variations

Want to customize this ground beef orzo recipe? Here are a few ideas:

• **Add Vegetables:** Mix in vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
• **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• **Use Different Meat:** Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• **Cheese Variations:** Try using mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone cheese instead of Parmesan.
• **Make It Vegetarian:** Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables or plant-based protein.

For another delicious and quick soup recipe, check out this potato leek soup recipe!

6. Serving Suggestions

This beef orzo dish is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a great option for meal prepping, as it reheats well and tastes even better the next day. For a more elegant presentation, garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You might also like serving this with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious orzo tomato cream sauce.

7. Health Benefits

This creamy orzo with beef offers a balanced meal with protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from the orzo, and vitamins from the tomatoes and other ingredients. Ground beef provides essential nutrients like iron and zinc. The tomato cream sauce adds antioxidants, and you can further enhance the nutritional value by incorporating more vegetables. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that contributes to a well-rounded diet. Why not expand your soup selection with this cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe?

8. Storage Instructions

To store leftovers, allow the ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking. This dish also freezes well for longer storage. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For similar quick and easy meals, explore this Ground Beef Orzo recipe. (external link)

9. Conclusion

This simple ground beef orzo recipe with tomato cream sauce is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to please. With its versatile nature and delicious flavors, it’s a winner that you’ll make again and again. For more variations and inspiration, you might want to check out these recipes for carrot potato soup, chicken potato soup, creamy potato soup, baked potato soup, or this potato kielbasa soup! Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this incredible beef orzo dish!

Print