Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious, comforting meal that combines tender ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and hearty orzo pasta, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe is exactly what you need. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to put together a satisfying meal in no time. Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, this dish will surely become a family favorite. Keep reading to discover all the ingredients, tips, and step-by-step instructions you need to make this mouth-watering dish.

What is Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a savory pasta dish made by combining seasoned ground beef, orzo pasta, and a creamy tomato-based sauce. Orzo, a type of pasta that resembles rice, soaks up the rich flavors of the sauce, while the ground beef adds a hearty, protein-packed element. The tomato cream sauce ties everything together, delivering a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. This dish is easy to customize with different seasonings or vegetables, making it a versatile and convenient choice for any dinner table.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

To make this delicious recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – Use lean or regular ground beef depending on your preference.
• 1 cup orzo pasta – Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – Fresh or canned tomatoes can be used, but canned diced tomatoes are convenient and offer consistent flavor.
• 1 cup tomato sauce – For the creamy tomato sauce base.
• ½ cup heavy cream – This adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds depth and flavor to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – For seasoning the ground beef and adding a Mediterranean touch.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a bit of heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds richness and umami to the final dish.
• Fresh basil or parsley – For garnish and added freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts about cooking at home is that you can customize the dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:

• Ground meat options: If you don’t have ground beef or prefer something lighter, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute.
• Orzo alternatives: If orzo isn't available, you can swap it out for other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even rice.
• Dairy-free option: Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut milk or almond cream, for a dairy-free version.
• Add vegetables: Bulk up the dish with sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. This not only adds nutrients but enhances the overall flavor.
• Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat, or add smoked paprika for a smoky twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce:

1. Cook the Orzo: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions (typically about 8–10 minutes), or until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Prepare the Tomato Cream Sauce: Once the ground beef is cooked, add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Add the Cream: Slowly stir in the heavy cream, ensuring it is fully incorporated into the sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine the Orzo and Sauce: Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet with the sauce and beef mixture. Stir everything together until the orzo is fully coated in the creamy tomato sauce. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
7. Finish with Parmesan and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

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

Here’s a summarized version of the steps for easy reference:

1. Cook the orzo: Follow the package instructions and set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables: Start by cooking onions and garlic in olive oil.
3. Brown the ground beef: Cook until fully browned and seasoned.
4. Make the sauce: Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and let it simmer.
5. Add the cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce thicken.
6. Combine and finish: Stir in the orzo, add Parmesan, and garnish with herbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the orzo: Orzo can quickly go from perfectly cooked to mushy, so keep an eye on it and drain as soon as it’s al dente.
• Not draining excess fat from the beef: If using higher-fat ground beef, make sure to drain the excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce.
• Adding cream too quickly: Always add the cream slowly and stir constantly to prevent the sauce from curdling.
• Under-seasoning the dish: Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Under-seasoned beef or sauce can result in a bland dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The beauty of Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is that it’s both hearty and visually appealing. Here are some tips for serving and presentation:

• Use a wide, shallow bowl: Serving this dish in a wide, shallow bowl allows the sauce to pool around the orzo, making it easier to enjoy every bite.
• Garnish generously: Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and a fresh note to contrast the rich sauce.
• Parmesan on top: A final dusting of Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also elevates the presentation with a touch of elegance.

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

This dish pairs perfectly with a light side salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a well-rounded meal, you might want to include a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cream sauce. Garlic bread or a toasted baguette can help soak up any extra sauce on the plate.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Rustic and casual: Serve the dish in large family-style bowls placed in the center of the table for a cozy, communal meal.
• Gourmet touch: For a more sophisticated presentation, you can plate individual servings with a sprinkle of Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil on top.
• Layered in a skillet: Serve it directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic yet stylish presentation that keeps the dish warm at the table.

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe Tips

• Prep in advance: You can cook the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. This will make assembling the dish quicker on the day you plan to serve it.
• Double the recipe: This dish freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for a quick meal on another busy night.
• Reheat gently: If you have leftovers, reheat them on low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce and maintain the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While orzo works great for this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and ground beef mixture ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just cook the orzo fresh to avoid it becoming too soft.

Can I freeze Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut milk.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that's easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight meal or something to impress your family and friends, this dish delivers with its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty components. Try this recipe out, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to customize it to your liking by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors!

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