Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying dinner idea that’s ready in under 30 minutes, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or when I want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s creamy, meaty, and bursting with wholesome tomato flavor. Each bite offers soft, sauce-soaked orzo combined with tender ground beef and gooey mozzarella cheese. Plus, the fresh basil adds a delightful touch that makes this dish truly special.

This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it on a casual evening or at a family gathering, this dish is bound to be a hit. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: With everything made in one pot, you can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes!
• Family-friendly appeal: This dish combines flavors that kids and adults both enjoy—who can resist cheesy goodness?
• Hearty and filling: The combination of ground beef and orzo makes this meal satisfying enough to please even the hungriest diners.
• Easy cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes to wash later—win-win!
• Delicious flavor: The creamy tomato sauce combined with fresh basil creates an irresistible taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze! Here you’ll find simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully to create this comforting dish.

For the Dish

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 0.5 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.25 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick!
• Try different cheeses: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or parmesan to change up the flavor profile.

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. This step is essential because sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, setting a delicious base for your sauce.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Garlic not only enhances the aroma but also infuses flavor into every ingredient as it cooks.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor. Browning the meat gives it that nice texture while allowing it to absorb all those savory juices.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes

Stir in tomato paste along with crushed tomatoes, letting them simmer for 2–3 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps meld all those rich flavors together before adding cream.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and add heavy cream, allowing it to simmer until thickened. This creamy component makes your sauce luscious while balancing out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 6: Cook the Orzo

Now stir in uncooked orzo pasta along with water. Cover and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender. Cooking everything together allows that delightful sauce to soak into each piece of pasta!

Step 7: Finish It Off

Once your orzo is tender, turn off the heat and stir in mozzarella cheese along with fresh basil. Let it sit for 2 minutes before serving so everything can meld together beautifully.

Enjoy every spoonful of this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce—it’s bound to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

This recipe is a breeze to make, but a few extra tips can take it from delicious to exceptional!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking helps the process flow smoothly and makes meal prep less stressful.

• Use fresh herbs for extra flavor: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh basil adds a vibrant taste that brightens the dish and enhances its overall appeal.

• Don’t skip the cheese: The mozzarella not only adds creaminess but also a delightful stretch that makes every bite more comforting. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses too!

• Adjust consistency to your liking: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a bit more tomato paste; for a creamier texture, add more heavy cream.

• Leftovers are your friend: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch the next day. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge!

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Serving this dish is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of whole leaves adds color and freshness that really pops against the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan on top gives an extra layer of flavor and a hint of saltiness that balances the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a favorite! It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.

• Steamed Broccoli: This bright green veggie not only adds color but also brings in nutrients. Plus, its crunch pairs well with the creamy orzo.

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and sweetness, making your meal feel even more wholesome.

Enjoy creating this delightful one-pot meal! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have an easy yet impressive dinner ready in no time.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making dinner a breeze on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the orzo dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; be sure to label with the date and contents.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream if necessary to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Got questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common ones!

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While this recipe features orzo, you can swap it for other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based meat alternative. The creamy tomato sauce will still shine through!

What can I serve with Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. You might also enjoy it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is truly a delightful recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and ease of preparation make it a family favorite. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience and any variations you try—I’d love to hear from you!

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