Introduction
Welcome to a hearty dish that brings comfort and warmth to your dining table: Hearty Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce. This delightful recipe melds together tender ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, creating a meal that is not only filling but also bursting with flavor. It’s an easy, one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is beautifully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as you go. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a lively boil.
- Once it’s boiling, gently add the orzo pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After the orzo has cooked, stir in the heavy cream and allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for an extra nutritional boost.
- For a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes when cooking the beef.
- This dish is perfect for leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge.
Cooking Techniques
The secret to a perfect Hearty Ground Beef Orzo lies in your sautéing technique. Start with a medium heat to allow the onions to soften without burning, which sets a flavorful foundation for the dish. Also, stir the orzo occasionally during cooking to ensure even cooking and to prevent clumping. This technique will ensure your sauce is rich, creamy, and full of flavor!
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While orzo creates a nice texture, you could substitute it with other small pasta shapes, like ditalini or mini shells.
- How can I make this dish lighter? You can use lean ground beef or even substitute it with ground turkey. Additionally, swapping the heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream can lighten the dish.
Conclusion
This Hearty Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Easy to whip up and packed with rich flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this one-pan dish is sure to win hearts. Happy cooking!