Easy Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: This provides a rich flavor to the dish. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based meat or some sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture.

Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is key for a cozy feel. If you’re out of orzo, try small shells, ditalini, or even rice! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for different pasta types.

Heavy Cream: It adds creaminess to the sauce. You can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind, the flavor may change slightly.

Crushed Tomatoes: These create the delicious base for the sauce. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can blend them up or use tomato sauce instead. If canned isn’t available, diced tomatoes will work, but blend for a smoother sauce!

How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Ground Beef?

To ensure you get a rich flavor from your ground beef, it’s all about the process! Start by ensuring the pan is hot enough so the meat browns properly, which adds a lot of depth to the taste:

• Cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step—browning develops amazing flavors!
• If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it to keep your dish lighter.

Also, remember to season your beef as you cook! Adding a bit of salt and pepper during the browning process helps enhance the flavor throughout the dish.

Easy Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, sliced (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in about 35 minutes total, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to serve!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrot. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are softened and the onion is translucent.

2. Add Garlic and Beef:

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the pan. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks, and continue to cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through—this should take around 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, drain it off.

3. Homemade Tomato Sauce:

Now it’s time to stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth (or water), dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the flavors to combine nicely.

4. Incorporate the Orzo Pasta:

Add the orzo pasta into the mixture, stirring well to combine. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This way, the orzo will become tender and absorb much of the liquid.

5. Make it Creamy:

Once the orzo is cooked to your liking, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring until the sauce is creamy and heated through.

6. Final Touches:

Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the beef orzo hot, garnished with fresh sliced basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of creamy tomato beef orzo! It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or any night you want something delightful and easy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a deliciously lighter meal!

What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?

No problem! You can swap orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini, tiny shells, or even rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose to ensure it cooks through properly.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture. Also, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and skip the heavy cream for a dairy-free option or use coconut milk!