Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

If you're searching for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s loaded with comforting flavors, you’ll love this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe. It combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked orzo, and a rich, velvety tomato cream sauce to create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you're making dinner for your family or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit! Follow along for the full step-by-step guide, cooking tips, and some variations to suit your taste preferences.

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What is Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring ground beef, orzo (a type of rice-shaped pasta), and a luscious tomato-based cream sauce. It’s an Italian-inspired meal that delivers on both taste and texture. The combination of rich, seasoned beef, creamy tomato sauce, and the tender bite of orzo creates a well-balanced, mouthwatering dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence. It’s a one-pan meal that comes together easily but tastes like something you’d get from a fine Italian restaurant.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

To make this dish, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• 1 ½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)

Ingredients List for Tomato Cream Sauce

For the creamy and rich tomato sauce, you’ll need:

• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes (for a smooth texture)
• ½ cup heavy cream (creates the luxurious, creamy finish)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for concentrated tomato flavor)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for a Mediterranean flavor boost)
• 1 tablespoon butter (adds richness and helps emulsify the sauce)

This creamy tomato sauce is the star of the dish, offering a rich and tangy flavor with just the right amount of creaminess to coat the orzo and ground beef.

Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe is already delicious as-is, there’s plenty of room to make it your own by using alternative ingredients or adjusting to suit your dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Meat: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb if you prefer a different type of meat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Pasta Substitution: If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can replace it with other small pasta varieties like ditalini, small shells, or even couscous.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. Skip the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutritional boost and added texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process. The best part? This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

1. Cook the Orzo:

• Bring a medium-sized pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 7-9 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the orzo and set aside.

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
• Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Remove the beef and set aside.

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

• In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onions until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

1. Make the Tomato Cream Sauce:

• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its flavor. Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Stir in the heavy cream, letting the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly and become rich and creamy.

1. Combine the Beef, Orzo, and Sauce:

• Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to combine. Add the cooked orzo and 1 ½ cups of beef broth, stirring to evenly coat the pasta and beef in the sauce.
• Let the mixture simmer together for 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors have combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

1. Finish with Parmesan and Herbs:

• Remove the skillet from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

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

Cooking this dish can be broken down into a few key steps:

1. Cook orzo pasta in boiling salted water until al dente.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked, then set aside.
3. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant, then add tomato paste and crushed tomatoes.
4. Simmer with cream to create the rich tomato cream sauce.
5. Combine beef, orzo, and sauce in the skillet and heat through.
6. Finish with Parmesan and fresh herbs for a deliciously creamy and savory meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce turns out perfectly, here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the orzo: Be careful not to overcook the orzo. It should be al dente, meaning firm but cooked through, as it will continue to absorb liquid when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping the browning step: Make sure to brown the beef properly. This caramelizes the meat, adding depth of flavor.
• Using too much cream: While the cream adds richness, too much can make the dish overly heavy. Stick to the recommended amount for the right balance.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a complete meal, serve your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce alongside a simple green salad or some garlic bread. The salad’s crisp freshness and the bread’s crunch complement the rich and creamy pasta dish.

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Family-style: Serve directly from the skillet at the table for a casual, homey vibe. Scoop portions into bowls or plates and top with extra Parmesan.
• Garnish: Add a sprig of basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of color and flavor.
• Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread for a more substantial meal.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Rustic: Serve in a cast-iron skillet or a large pasta bowl for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Elegant: Plate the orzo individually, topped with a sprig of fresh basil and a light dusting of Parmesan cheese for a more polished presentation.

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe Tips

• Use fresh herbs: While dried Italian seasoning works well, using fresh herbs like basil or parsley can really elevate the flavors.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will meld even more after sitting for a day.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?
A: Yes, you can freeze it, but the cream sauce may separate when reheated. To avoid this, freeze the sauce and orzo separately and stir in the cream when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for this dish, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even elbow macaroni.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, just swap out the orzo for a gluten-free pasta option. Make sure to check that your other ingredients, like beef broth, are also gluten-free.

Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: For more heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together quickly and easily. Its blend of hearty ground beef, tender orzo, and creamy tomato sauce makes it the perfect go-to meal for any night of the week. Whether you're feeding a family or cooking for one, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Try it out, experiment with the variations, and enjoy this delicious, comforting meal!

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