Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Recipe has a special place in anyone’s weeknight dinner lineup. This wonderful dish combines hearty ground beef with comforting orzo pasta, all enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
What is Orzo?
Orzo is a type of pasta that looks like grains of rice. It’s super versatile, perfect for soups, salads, or as a side dish on its own. When cooked, it takes on flavors beautifully. In our recipe, it acts as the heart of the dish, soaking up all the deliciousness that comes from the tomato cream sauce and beef.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Recipe
- For the Main Dish
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- For Serving
How To Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Recipe
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft. Then, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, including the juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook the Orzo: Meanwhile, in a separate pot, bring 3 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: To the beef mixture, slowly stir in the heavy cream. Cook on low heat until it’s hot and slightly thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked orzo to the beef and sauce mixture. Mix well until the orzo is coated and heated through.
- Serve: Portion onto plates and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. If you have basil, sprinkle it on for a fresh touch!
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Orzo
- Use Lean Ground Beef: This helps keep the dish light and avoids excess grease, which can spoil the creaminess of the sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs rather than dried for a brighter flavor. Fresh basil or parsley makes a big difference.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to toss in veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo
This dish is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a side salad or crusty bread can elevate your meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette will complement it wonderfully, while garlic bread can soak up the rich sauce.
Storage Tips for Ground Beef Orzo
- Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can freeze the dish. Just make sure to cool it first, then transfer it to a freezer-friendly container. It will last for about 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variations of Ground Beef Orzo
- Cheesy Orzo Bake: After mixing everything together, transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce if you like some heat in your meal.
- Mediterranean Flair: Toss in black olives, feta cheese, or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef Orzo
This dish offers a balanced meal with protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the orzo. Adding tomatoes and any extra vegetables boosts the vitamins and minerals, making it a good choice for families who need a hearty but healthy option.
Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Recipe is a fantastic addition to your dinner menu. It’s comforting, easy to make, and packed with flavor. The creamy tomato sauce combined with the cozy orzo and savory beef creates a dish the whole family will enjoy.