Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting combination of ground beef, tender orzo, and a rich tomato cream sauce. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, hearty, and satisfying.

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I first tried this recipe during a hectic week when I was juggling work and family commitments. It quickly became a household favorite, thanks to its creamy texture and bold flavors that even the pickiest eaters love. Let's dive into the details and see why this recipe deserves a spot on your dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

Get ready to discover a dinner recipe that's equal parts comforting and convenient. Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce has everything you could want in a meal: flavor, texture, and ease.

First, this recipe is incredibly quick to make. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a steaming bowl of creamy, savory orzo on the table. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when time feels like your biggest obstacle.

It’s also wonderfully budget-friendly. With affordable ingredients like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and pantry staples, this dish is easy on your wallet without sacrificing taste.

Another highlight is its versatility. Whether you're serving a crowd or preparing a cozy meal for two, this recipe can be scaled up or down effortlessly. Plus, you can adapt the ingredients to suit what you have on hand, making it ideal for clearing out your fridge or pantry.

Lastly, this dish is a true family favorite. The combination of creamy tomato sauce, tender orzo, and savory ground beef appeals to both kids and adults alike. Once you try it, it’s sure to earn a regular spot in your meal planning.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish's rich flavor and comforting texture.

Start with ground beef, the star of this recipe. Choose an 85/15 blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.

Next up is orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully. It’s essential for creating the creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.

The tomato sauce forms the base of the creamy sauce. A combination of canned crushed tomatoes and a hint of tomato paste adds depth and a rich, tangy flavor.

For the creaminess, heavy cream works wonders. It balances the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a luscious, velvety texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be substituted, though the sauce won’t be as thick.

Don't forget the aromatics! Onion and garlic bring a depth of flavor that ties everything together. Sauté them until soft and fragrant to create the perfect base for the sauce.

Lastly, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty finish. It's optional but highly recommended for the ultimate flavor boost.

How To Make This Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

Making this dish is a breeze, even on the busiest of nights. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Once fully cooked, transfer it to a plate and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the onion until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, allowing the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and creates a rich tomato base.

Add the orzo to the skillet, along with enough water or broth to cover the pasta. Stir well and let it cook, uncovered, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix everything together. Let the dish simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully for future meals. Let the orzo cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to loosen the sauce, then warm over medium heat.

For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your preferences and dietary needs.

• Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Add extra vegetables like diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
• Use Greek yogurt or light sour cream in place of heavy cream for a tangier, lighter sauce.
• Experiment with different pasta shapes if you don’t have orzo on hand. Small pastas like ditalini or elbow macaroni work well.
• Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.

No matter how you make it, Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe that you’ll turn to again and again. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

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