This Easy Beef Orzo is a warm hug in a bowl! It mixes tender beef and small pasta called orzo in a rich tomato sauce that’s creamy and delightful.
Let’s be real, creamy sauces are like magic. I always sneak an extra scoop because it’s just so yummy! Pair it with a salad, and you’ve got a perfect meal for any day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. I sometimes mix it up with ground lamb for a different flavor. Just watch the fat content in those choices!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo adds a unique touch, but you can substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice if you need to avoid gluten. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Tomato Sauce: If you have fresh tomatoes, you could puree them instead of using canned sauce. For extra flavor, consider adding a spoonful of tomato paste along with the sauce!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or skip the cream altogether and replace it with more broth for a tomato soup vibe. This still keeps it creamy without being so rich.
How Do I Make Sure My Orzo Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking orzo can be tricky since it can clump together. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Add plenty of liquid (broth and sauce) to the pasta. This keeps it from getting too sticky.
- Stir occasionally during the simmering process to prevent it from settling at the bottom and sticking.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Orzo usually cooks in about 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, meaning firm to the bite.
Letting it sit off the heat for a few minutes will help it thicken without overcooking. Enjoy your creamy dish!
Easy Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced, for garnish
Time Estimate:
This delightful beef orzo dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy option for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrot. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Continue to cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning while it cooks!
3. Add the Orzo:
Time to stir in the orzo pasta! Mix it well with the beef and vegetable combination to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
4. Combine with Sauces:
Now pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, giving it a good stir to combine everything. Increase the heat to bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
5. Make it Creamy:
Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, add in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it all together until it’s creamy and well combined. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Let it Thicken:
Remove the skillet from the heat and cover it for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will allow it to thicken slightly. Just enough time to get your bowls ready!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the beef orzo hot, garnished with a sprinkle of thinly sliced fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese on top. It’s ready to enjoy!
Dig into this delicious, cozy beef orzo dish! Perfect for any night of the week!
FAQ for Easy Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground lamb for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply use sautéed mushrooms and more vegetables for a hearty version. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to rejuvenate the creaminess.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just add them in with the onions so they have time to cook and soften.
