Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty, comforting dish that blends rich flavors with simple ingredients? This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe is exactly what you need! It’s an easy one-pan meal that brings together tender orzo, savory ground beef, and a luscious tomato cream sauce. Read on for the full recipe, and discover tips for perfecting this delightful dish.

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What is Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a savory dish that combines the meaty goodness of lean ground beef with the creaminess of a tomato-based sauce, perfectly complemented by orzo pasta. The orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, is ideal for absorbing the rich sauce, resulting in a hearty and filling meal that everyone will love. With ingredients like garlic, parmesan cheese, and spinach, this dish packs layers of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe is versatile and easy to follow.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• 1 pound lean ground beef: Choose a leaner ground beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy, but still rich in flavor.
• ½ medium onion, chopped: This adds sweetness and depth to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides a wonderful aroma and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Add a little heat to the dish, but you can leave this out if you prefer a milder taste.
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil that complements the tomato cream sauce.
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: Orzo is a small pasta that soaks up the sauce, giving you the perfect texture.
• 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce: The base of the sauce, bringing rich tomato flavor to the dish.
• ¾ cup beef broth: Adds depth to the sauce and enhances the beefy flavor.
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: This turns the tomato sauce into a luxurious, creamy concoction.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: A dash of umami flavor that enhances the savory beef and tomato.
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty, salty finish that’s irresistible.
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrition to the dish.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to customize this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe, there are several substitutions and variations to consider.

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
• Vegetarian Version: You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
• Gluten-Free Orzo: Use a gluten-free orzo pasta if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Cheese Options: Instead of parmesan, try using romano or asiago for a slightly different flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value of the dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring that it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan with the ground beef. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Season: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and Italian seasoning. Let the spices bloom in the hot oil and beef mixture for about 1 minute to release their flavors.
4. Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour in the can of tomato sauce and the beef broth. Stir to combine everything, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta. Ensure the orzo is submerged in the liquid so it can cook evenly.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the orzo cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.
7. Add Cream and Worcestershire Sauce: Once the orzo is tender, pour in the heavy cream and add the Worcestershire sauce. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and everything is well combined.
8. Add Spinach and Parmesan: Stir in the fresh spinach and freshly grated parmesan cheese. The spinach will wilt quickly in the heat of the sauce.
9. Season to Taste: Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust seasoning to your preference.

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

Cooking Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is simple once you get the hang of it. The key steps involve browning the beef, creating a flavorful sauce, and cooking the orzo to absorb all those wonderful flavors. Make sure to stir the orzo regularly so it doesn’t stick to the pan, and don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as you go along.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Orzo: Orzo can become mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and make sure to remove it from the heat once it’s al dente.
2. Skipping the Seasoning: Make sure to season the dish at every stage—during browning, after adding the broth, and at the end—to ensure the flavors are well-balanced.
3. Not Sautéing the Onions and Garlic Long Enough: Sautéing the onions and garlic properly releases their sweetness and depth, so don’t rush this step.
4. Adding Spinach Too Early: Spinach wilts quickly, so add it at the end to prevent it from overcooking and becoming soggy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is just as important as taste, and there are several ways to serve your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce to impress your guests or family.

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the dish before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Grated Parmesan on Top: A little extra grated parmesan on top will give the dish a rich, cheesy finish.
• Crusty Bread on the Side: Serve the dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.
• Family-Style Serving: For a cozy family dinner, serve the dish straight from the skillet in the center of the table. Let everyone dig in!

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the dish in individual bowls with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil on top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil, and serve alongside a crisp side salad for a balanced meal. Alternatively, you can plate the orzo on a wide, shallow plate and create a small mound in the center for a more refined look.

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe Tips

• Cook the orzo in the sauce: This method ensures the pasta absorbs all the rich flavors from the beef, broth, and tomato sauce.
• Use freshly grated parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often lacks the same flavor intensity and texture as freshly grated, so it’s worth the extra effort.
• Adjust creaminess to taste: If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add more heavy cream towards the end. Likewise, if the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more beef broth.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your dish before serving to ensure the seasoning is perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. However, the orzo may absorb more sauce as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Can I freeze Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce? It’s best to freeze the beef and sauce mixture without the orzo, as pasta can become mushy after being frozen and reheated. Add freshly cooked orzo when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini farfalle. Keep in mind the cooking time may vary.

Is this dish spicy? The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can omit them for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a satisfying, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with variations to make it your own!

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