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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Bliss

This One-Pan Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce delivers rich flavors with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Base
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey if desired.
  • 1 small Onion Can use shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use fresh cloves, avoid pre-minced.
For the Sauce
  • 14 oz Crushed Tomatoes Diced tomatoes can be used for a chunkier texture.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.
  • 1 tbsp Tomato Paste Add more for richer flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a touch of heat.
For the Orzo
  • 1.5 cups Orzo Pasta Acini di pepe can be a substitute.
  • 2.5 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast works for a vegetarian option.
  • to taste Fresh Basil Spinach can substitute if basil isn't available.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Steps
  1. Heat the skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Cook the ground beef and onion for 6-8 minutes until beef is browned and onion is translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Mix in the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; cook for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add the orzo pasta, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. After the orzo has cooked, stir in the heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, use quality ingredients and adjust seasonings at the end. Serve immediately for the best texture.

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