Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Sauce

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the comforting texture of orzo pasta with the savory richness of ground beef and a creamy tomato sauce. This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The creamy sauce envelops the orzo, creating a harmonious blend that’s both filling and indulgent. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate protein and carbs in one easy-to-prepare dish. low carb taco casserole With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress their family and friends. This meal is sure to become a staple in your household, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve up a plateful of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds. For more inspiration, check out this Whole30 sloppy joes recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Orzo Pasta: A short rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it perfect for this dish.
• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty yet not overly greasy; aim for an 80/20 ratio for best results.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes to enhance the flavor of the sauce; fire-roasted options add extra depth.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its rich creaminess; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic are essential for building a robust base flavor; use yellow onion for sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then sauté diced onions until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, roughly another minute.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula while cooking until browned throughout, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain well when done.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

To the skillet with beef, add canned diced tomatoes (with juices) along with heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients; let simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked orzo into the skillet containing the tomato cream sauce. Stir everything together gently until the pasta is fully coated in sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates or bowls while hot and garnish as desired—fresh basil or grated parmesan works wonderfully as toppings. hibachi-style steak bowls.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the orzo and ground beef mixture in advance. Cook the orzo according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, then combine it with the beef mixture. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or additional cream sauce if needed, stirring frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave it in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Suggestions for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Avoid Overcooking the Orzo

One common mistake when making Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is overcooking the orzo. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture, negatively impacting the dish. To prevent this, cook the orzo al dente according to package instructions. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat, especially when combined with the sauce. Taste the orzo a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to ensure it maintains a firm bite, allowing it to hold up better in your creamy sauce. For more inspiration, check out this easy beef and noodles recipe.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for preparing a delicious Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce. Fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality meat will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. Avoid using expired or canned products whenever possible, as they may contain preservatives that can dull the taste. When selecting your beef, opt for ground beef that has a good fat content for added richness in flavor. Fresh garlic and onions can also elevate your sauce’s aroma and taste, creating an irresistible meal that everyone will love.

Balance Your Flavors

Balancing flavors is essential when making Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce. A well-rounded dish should have a mix of savory, sweet, and acidic elements. If your sauce tastes too acidic due to tomatoes, consider adding a pinch of sugar or honey to balance it out. sweet dessert pairing Additionally, seasoning with salt and pepper can bring all flavors together harmoniously. Always taste as you go; this practice helps you adjust seasoning levels to achieve a perfectly balanced dish that pleases every palate.

Properly Cook Your Ground Beef

Cooking your ground beef properly is vital for creating an excellent Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce. Start by browning the meat in a hot skillet, breaking it up into small pieces for even cooking. Ensure there’s no pink remaining in the meat before draining excess fat; this step is crucial for achieving flavor depth in your sauce. Season your beef while cooking to infuse flavor right from the start. This technique will enhance not only your beef but also contribute to the overall richness of your dish.

FAQs

What can I serve with Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can opt for a light Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar to complement your dish’s creamy texture. Additionally, garlic bread can add crunch and soak up any leftover sauce on plates. For those looking for extra protein, consider serving grilled chicken or shrimp on the side as well.

How do I store leftovers of Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

To store leftovers of Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce properly, transfer any unused portions into airtight containers once cooled down to room temperature. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage—up to three months works well here! When reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up on low heat on your stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Can I modify this recipe to make it healthier?

Certainly! You can make several modifications to create a healthier version of Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce without compromising flavor. Consider using lean ground turkey instead of beef to reduce fat content while still providing protein. You might also substitute whole grain orzo for regular pasta; this swap increases fiber intake significantly. Adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can boost nutrients while enhancing color and texture in your dish!

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily adapt Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce into a vegetarian option by replacing ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils or mushrooms that provide similar textures and flavors when cooked properly. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of meat broth if needed and incorporate plenty of vegetables into your sauce for added nutrition and bulkiness without meat.

Conclusion for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

In summary, preparing Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce involves avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking pasta and using stale ingredients while ensuring proper cooking techniques are followed throughout preparation. Balancing flavors enhances overall taste while pairing wisely complements this delicious meal beautifully! With variations available—whether opting for health-conscious changes or vegetarian adaptations—this recipe offers versatility that suits various dietary preferences while still delivering delightful results everyone will enjoy!

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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

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• Author: Ezra
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a creamy and satisfying dish that blends tender orzo pasta with savory ground beef in a rich tomato cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and delivers comforting flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Increase heat slightly and add ground beef. Cook until browned throughout, approximately 5-7 minutes, draining excess fat if needed.
3. In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain well.
4. To the skillet with beef, add canned tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir well; simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until heated through.
5. Combine cooked orzo with the sauce in the skillet, stirring gently to coat pasta evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or grated parmesan if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg