This Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a cozy dish that’s easy to love! Tender beef and chewy orzo come together in a creamy, tomatoey hug that warms you right up.
Every bite is packed with flavor! I enjoy this dish on busy nights because it’s quick to whip up and even quicker to vanish from my plate. Perfect for family dinners! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less fat. If you prefer something lighter, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and fits perfectly in this dish. If orzo isn’t available, you can use any small pasta shape like ditalini, couscous, or even rice.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes give flavor and texture. If you’re up for it, fresh tomatoes can be used—just chop them finely and cook them down. For a bit of sweetness, diced tomatoes or tomato sauce can also work.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Beef Broth: Homemade beef broth is great, but store-bought is perfectly fine. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian twist.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking orzo might seem tricky, but it’s actually quite simple! You want to achieve that perfect al dente texture. Here’s how:
- First, ensure your dish is simmering before adding the orzo. This helps it cook evenly.
- Stir the orzo into the mix well so it doesn’t clump together.
- Follow the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes of cooking time. Check a minute early to make sure it doesn’t overcook.
- Once it’s tender, remove from heat immediately to stop the cooking process.
By keeping an eye on it, you’ll have a deliciously fluffy and perfectly cooked orzo every time!
How to Make Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything in one pan. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Begin by placing a large skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion is soft. Then, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the beef is browned all the way through. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning while it cooks to enhance the flavor!
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Turn up the heat a little and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will help all those yummy flavors blend together nicely.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Now, add the orzo to the skillet and give everything a good stir to combine. Make sure the orzo is submerged in the liquid. Let it cook according to the package instructions, which is usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender but still firm (al dente).
5. Stir in the Cream and Cheese:
Once the orzo is cooked, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to heat everything through. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well until it’s melted and everything is creamy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and spoon the beef orzo into bowls. Top each serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor. Enjoy your delightful bowl of beef orzo!
Can I Use Different Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Yes! While orzo adds a unique texture, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like ditalini or mini shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions, as it may vary.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as these proteins may cook faster than beef. Make sure to season well to ensure flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Cool any leftovers to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese. It will still be creamy and delicious!
