Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes? This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the perfect choice! It’s a one-pan dish that combines tender orzo pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce that’s irresistibly comforting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something hearty yet simple, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive in and make this delicious meal!

this Recipe

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What is Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a savory, comforting dish that features ground beef sautéed with aromatic onions and garlic, cooked together with orzo pasta, and smothered in a rich tomato cream sauce. Orzo, a small, rice-shaped pasta, cooks directly in the same pan as the sauce, absorbing all the flavors and resulting in a creamy, satisfying dish. It’s the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and tangy, with a touch of freshness from herbs like basil or parsley.

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Ingredients List for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this quick and satisfying meal:

For the Ground Beef Orzo:

• 1 lb ground beef – You can also use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat for a lighter option.
• 1 small onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a savory, aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup uncooked orzo – A rice-shaped pasta that cooks directly in the sauce.
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce – Forms the base of the sauce and provides that rich tomato flavor.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds depth.
• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth) – Helps cook the orzo and infuses flavor into the dish.
• ½ cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds a blend of herbs for extra flavor.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a bit of heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing the flavors.

For Garnishing:

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty finish.
• Chopped fresh parsley or basil – For a fresh pop of color and flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations

There are many ways to customize this dish based on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen. Here are some suggestions:

• Ground meat options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat.
• Cream alternatives: For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut milk.
• Cheese choices: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano, feta, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
• Vegetables: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to increase nutrition and add texture to the dish.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a one-pan meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Follow these simple steps to make it at home:

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula, until browned and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary and set the beef aside on a plate.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add Tomato and Broth

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to release its flavors. Then, add the tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Cook the Orzo

Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet, stirring it into the tomato sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If the mixture becomes too thick before the orzo is fully cooked, you can add a little more broth or water, a few tablespoons at a time, as needed.

5. Stir in the Cream

Once the orzo is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to become creamy and thickened. Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet and stir until everything is evenly combined.

6. Taste and Season

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The flavors should be balanced and rich, with a slight tang from the tomato and creaminess from the sauce.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot, and enjoy your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce!

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

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to make sure your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce comes out perfect every time:

1. Brown the ground beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet.
3. Add tomato sauce, paste, and broth, then stir in the orzo.
4. Simmer the orzo until tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. Stir in heavy cream and the browned beef for a creamy finish.
6. Garnish and serve with Parmesan and fresh herbs.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not stirring the orzo enough: Since orzo is small and tends to stick together, make sure to stir it occasionally while it simmers to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking.
• Overcooking the orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks. You want it to be al dente—firm to the bite—not mushy.
• Using too much liquid: Be mindful of the broth and sauce measurements. If the dish becomes too watery, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to let the liquid reduce.
• Forgetting to season: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Proper seasoning brings out the full flavor of the dish.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

This hearty, flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a few simple sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to complete the meal:

• Garlic bread: Serve with a slice of crispy garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy tomato sauce.
• Side salad: Pair the dish with a light green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini add texture and extra nutrition to the meal.

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How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

For the best presentation and flavor, try these serving suggestions:

• Serve family-style: Place the skillet in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves, making it a cozy, casual meal.
• Individual plates: For a more formal presentation, plate the orzo in bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs.
• Add a garnish: For an extra pop of flavor and color, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, along with a drizzle of olive oil or a crack of fresh black pepper.

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Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Take your dish to the next level with these simple presentation tips:

• Rustic cast-iron skillet: Serve the dish directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Bright, fresh herbs: A sprinkle of bright green herbs like parsley or basil adds color and freshness to the rich, red sauce.
• Shaved Parmesan: Instead of grated Parmesan, use a vegetable peeler to shave thin ribbons of Parmesan over the top of the dish for a more refined look.

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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to make sure your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce turns out perfect:

• Use good-quality tomatoes: Since the sauce is a key part of the flavor, using a good-quality tomato sauce and paste can make a big difference in taste.
• Fresh vs. dried herbs: If you have fresh herbs like basil or thyme, feel free to use them in place of dried Italian seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
• Don’t rush the cream: Stir in the cream at the end, over low heat, to avoid curdling and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: Can I substitute the orzo for another pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta used.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version. Coconut cream also works as a dairy-free alternative.

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Conclusion

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, yet easy enough to make on any busy weeknight. Whether you’re feeding your family or cooking for guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a recipe you’ll want to add to your regular rotation. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy this delicious, creamy pasta dish tonight. Happy cooking!

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