Irresistibly Creamy Beef Orzo Recipe with Tomato Cream Sauce
This Beef Orzo Recipe with a Tomato Cream Sauce is a quick and comforting dish perfect for weeknights.
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Beef Orzo Recipe, comfort food, One-Pan Dinner, Quick recipe, Tomato Cream Sauce, Weeknight Meal
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 560kcal
For the Base
- 1 lb Ground Beef substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option
- 1 medium Onion finely diced
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1.5 cups Orzo Pasta consider substituting with ditalini
For the Sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes diced tomatoes can be used for more texture
- 1 cup Heavy Cream substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream
- 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 2.5 cups Beef Broth homemade or low-sodium recommended
Seasoning & Garnish
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes add more for extra heat
- 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese for garnishing
- to taste Fresh Basil Leaves or parsley if basil is unavailable
Cooking Instructions
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion has softened.
Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but do not burn.
Build the Flavor: Stir in the tomato paste and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Incorporate crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook the Orzo: Add orzo pasta to the skillet. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cream it Up: Stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
Garnish and Serve: Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.
Consider serving with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 560kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 700mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1200IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 3mg