Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

If you're looking for a comforting, hearty, and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is just the recipe for you. With tender, flavorful ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, this dish brings together all the elements of a satisfying meal. Plus, it's easy to prepare and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry! Keep reading to find out how to make this scrumptious dish, tips for serving, common mistakes to avoid, and much more.

What is Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato-based cream sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile and quick to prepare. The tomato cream sauce adds a delightful tang and richness to the dish, perfectly complementing the savory ground beef and tender orzo. It’s a dish that’s perfect for feeding the whole family or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

To make this comforting dish, you’ll need a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that pack a ton of flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef (80/20 lean-fat ratio works best for flavor)
• 1 ½ cups of orzo pasta (uncooked)
• 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes for more texture)
• ½ cup of heavy cream (to give the sauce its creamy richness)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (to intensify the tomato flavor)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano (for a Mediterranean flavor)
• ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 cups of chicken broth (to cook the orzo and add flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (to season)

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be. Here are a few easy substitutions and variations you can make to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

• Ground beef substitute: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground “meat” or lentils.
• Orzo pasta: You can swap orzo for any small pasta such as ditalini, mini shells, or even couscous. If you're gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta variety.
• Tomato sauce alternatives: If you don’t have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or even marinara sauce will work well in this recipe.
• Cream alternatives: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or any plant-based cream alternatives.
• Extra veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost the nutrition of the dish. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the ground beef.
• Spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the tomato cream sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Follow these simple steps for a delicious Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pan with the onions and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into small crumbles. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings

Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, letting the tomato paste coat the beef and the spices bloom in the oil.

Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce and Broth

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to ensure it's evenly distributed. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the orzo cook in the sauce for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add the Cream

Once the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened, stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it's fully incorporated and the dish is creamy and rich.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Cook Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking this delicious dish is simple and quick, but attention to detail is what makes it shine. Here’s a recap of the key steps in preparing Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce:

1. Prep the ingredients: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the other ingredients.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base of the dish, so make sure to cook them until soft and fragrant.
3. Brown the ground beef: Properly browning the beef adds depth of flavor, so take your time to cook it evenly.
4. Simmer the sauce: The tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings need time to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful base.
5. Cook the orzo: Let the orzo cook directly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors.
6. Add the cream: This step creates a luscious, creamy sauce that ties the whole dish together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining excess fat: If you don’t drain the fat after browning the ground beef, the dish can become greasy. Always drain excess fat unless you’re using a very lean cut of meat.
• Undercooking the orzo: Orzo can take on a slightly chewy texture if not cooked long enough. Make sure to give it the full 10-12 minutes in the sauce to absorb the flavors and become tender.
• Overcooking the orzo: On the other hand, overcooking orzo can cause it to become mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and test the orzo for doneness toward the end of the cooking process.
• Skipping the cream: The cream is what makes the sauce rich and decadent, so don’t skip it unless you’re specifically looking for a lighter dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is everything when it comes to making your meal look as good as it tastes. Here are some easy ways to serve and present your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce:

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Serve this dish as a hearty main course with a simple green salad on the side.
• Pair it with a slice of garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up the creamy tomato sauce.
• If you’re feeding a larger group, this dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, broccoli, or carrots, for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Serve the dish in a large, shallow pasta bowl for an elegant look.
• Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for that final touch of richness and flavor.
• Drizzle a small amount of olive oil or balsamic glaze around the edge of the plate for a gourmet presentation.

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. The flavors will develop even more as it sits.
• Double the recipe: This recipe is easy to double if you’re feeding a larger group or want leftovers.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. However, keep in mind that the cream sauce may separate slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to help bring the sauce back together.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. Keep in mind that using a lighter option may result in a thinner sauce.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the orzo for a gluten-free pasta option. There are plenty of small gluten-free pasta varieties available that work well in this dish.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To kick up the heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the perfect recipe for anyone looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. With its rich tomato cream sauce, tender orzo, and savory ground beef, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The versatility of the ingredients and the simplicity of the recipe make it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Whether you're serving it with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or roasted veggies, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Try it today and enjoy the hearty, delicious flavors in every bite!

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