Description
This delicious Ground Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal combining tender ground beef, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings and Extras
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Italian seasoning to taste
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley (optional)
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 3-5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Combine with Orzo: Stir in the cooked orzo, mixing until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season and Garnish: Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Stir in any fresh herbs if using. Plate the dish and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a creamier texture.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish and add freshness.
- Optional Parmesan cheese adds a savory finish but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
