This Beef Orzo recipe is a comforting dish that combines tiny pasta with tender beef and a creamy tomato sauce. It’s quick to make and bursting with flavor!
Cooking this meal always puts a smile on my face! I love how the orzo soaks up the sauce, making every bite delicious. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish. You could use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a different flavor, ground lamb can be a tasty substitute as well.
Orzo Pasta: While orzo is popular here, you can swap it for other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe. If you want a gluten-free version, choose a gluten-free pasta or even quinoa.
Crushed Tomatoes: I love using crushed tomatoes for their rich flavor, but diced tomatoes or fresh tomatoes (sautéed first) can work too. If you’re looking for more sweetness, try fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Heavy Cream: If you’re watching calories, light cream or half-and-half can substitute well. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream, which adds a lovely richness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best. If you’re vegetarian, look for a brand that makes non-animal rennet cheeses or try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Orzo?
Cooking orzo just right can be tricky. To ensure it’s not overcooked and mushy, follow these steps:
- Add orzo to the simmering sauce in step 5 and give it a good stir. Cover it to retain moisture.
- Check for doneness after about 10 minutes. Taste a piece to see if it has the perfect al dente bite.
- If it seems to be sticking, stir gently every few minutes. Adding a splash of extra beef broth can prevent it from drying out.
Believe me, cooking it properly will give you that delightful bite in every spoonful!
How to Make Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 35 minutes. You’ll sauté, simmer, and stir everything together to create a delicious and creamy meal that serves perfectly warm.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. This adds a nice flavor to your base.
2. Adding Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook it for just 1 minute, stirring often to ensure it doesn’t burn. You want that lovely garlic aroma to fill your kitchen!
3. Browning the Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, until it’s nice and browned. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to boost the flavor!
4. Mixing in the Sauces:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then bring everything to a simmer. This will create a rich sauce for your dish.
5. Cooking the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta and Italian seasoning into the skillet. Give it a good stir, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender. Remember to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom!
6. Making it Creamy:
Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
7. Final Touches:
Give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, to make sure it’s just right.
8. Serving Time:
Serve your delicious beef orzo warm. Garnish each serving with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a lovely finishing touch!
Enjoy your cozy and comforting Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce! It’s sure to become a favorite.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles as a substitute for ground beef. If using turkey or chicken, consider adding a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor. For plant-based options, check the cooking instructions as they may require less time to cook.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little cornstarch for thickness. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a cashew cream, keeping in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of beef broth or water to the skillet and warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and tomato sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in a skillet and add the orzo and cream. Just note it will take a bit longer to warm through, so keep an eye on it!
