Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make dinner, this Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce is perfect. The combination of tender orzo, rich tomato cream sauce, and flavorful ground beef creates a meal that’s satisfying and quick enough for busy weeknights. Plus, it all comes together in one pot, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup!

What Is Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce?

This dish is a one-pot wonder that blends the savory taste of ground beef with the creamy texture of orzo pasta, all enveloped in a rich tomato cream sauce. Orzo, a small, rice-shaped pasta, absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, creating a comforting meal. The addition of baby spinach adds a touch of freshness, making it not just delicious but also nutritious.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a rich, savory flavor and heartiness.
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant and zesty undertone.
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat, which is optional but recommended for an extra kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil, giving the dish a classic Italian flavor.
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: Orzo soaks up the sauce and provides a delightful, tender bite.
• 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce: Forms the base of the creamy tomato sauce.
• 3/4 cup beef broth: Enhances the richness of the sauce and balances the flavors.
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami flavor, making the sauce taste more complex.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce a salty, cheesy finish.
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach (packed): Adds freshness and a boost of nutrients.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

this RECIPE

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it’s a combination of comfort and flavor. The orzo absorbs the creamy tomato sauce, which is rich from the cream and savory from the ground beef. The beef broth adds depth, while the Worcestershire sauce and parmesan cheese give it that perfect umami touch. The baby spinach offers a fresh contrast, balancing the richness of the dish. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, so there’s minimal cleanup.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Ground Beef Orzo

Here’s how to make this simple yet delicious dish in a few easy steps:

1. Brown the Beef
   Begin by adding 1 pound of lean ground beef to a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Break up the beef with a spoon and let it cook for 5-6 minutes without stirring too much to develop a nice brown crust.
2. Add the Onions and Garlic
   Once the beef is browned, add 1/2 medium chopped onion to the pot and break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Let the onions cook for about 5 minutes until softened. If there’s excess fat, drain it off, but if you’re using lean beef, leave it in for flavor. Then, stir in 3-4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Incorporate the Orzo and Sauce
   Stir in 1 cup of uncooked orzo, ensuring it is well-coated with the beef and onion mixture. Add 1 (14-ounce) can of tomato sauce, 3/4 cup of beef broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together.
4. Cook the Orzo
   Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat to medium or medium-low so it simmers gently. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Adjust the heat as needed, ensuring the liquid doesn’t evaporate too quickly before the orzo is fully cooked.
5. Add Parmesan and Spinach
   Once the orzo is tender, take the pot off the heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 2 cups of fresh baby spinach. Cover the pot and let it sit for 3-5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
   Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, give the dish one final stir and serve immediately. The creamy tomato sauce should coat the orzo perfectly, with the spinach adding a burst of color and nutrition.

Tips for Cooking Orzo

• Stir Often: Orzo has a tendency to stick to the bottom of the pot, so be sure to stir frequently.
• Watch the Liquid: Keep an eye on the amount of liquid in the pot. You don’t want the sauce to reduce too quickly or the orzo won’t cook properly. Add a splash of beef broth if needed.

How to Customize the Recipe

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few customization ideas:

• Swap the Protein: You can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Make it Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and swap the beef for plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms.
• Add More Vegetables: You can bulk up this dish by adding veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Orzo: Be sure to keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks. Overcooked orzo can turn mushy, so aim for an al dente texture.
• Using Too Much Heat: Keep the heat on medium to medium-low while cooking the orzo to prevent the sauce from reducing too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce pairs well with a light side salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. You could also serve it with garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate upon reheating.

FAQs about Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

• Can I freeze this dish?
  It’s not recommended to freeze this dish because the cream sauce may separate and become grainy upon reheating.
• What if I don’t have heavy cream?
  You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.
• Can I use a different pasta?
  Yes, while orzo works best in this dish, you can substitute small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce is a crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of a creamy tomato sauce with tender orzo and savory ground beef. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner, and it’s simple enough to whip up on any busy night. Try it out today, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make meals!

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