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Beef Orzo Recipe with a Tomato Cream Sauce

Irresistibly Easy Beef Orzo Recipe with Tomato Cream Sauce

This Beef Orzo Recipe with a Tomato Cream Sauce transforms everyday ingredients into a spectacular meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Beef Orzo, comfort food, Family-Friendly, One-Pan Meal, Quick Dinner, Tomato Cream Sauce
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 500kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version.
  • 1 Small Onion Shallots can be used for a more delicate taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder works in a pinch.
  • 1 14 oz can Crushed Tomatoes Use tomato purée for a smoother texture.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Consider half-and-half for a lighter touch.
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste Deepens the sauce flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional; black pepper is a milder alternative.
  • Salt and Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1.5 cups Orzo Pasta Small pasta shapes like ditalini are great substitutes.
  • 2.5 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth can work well for a vegetarian option.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated; nutritional yeast is a dairy-free option.
  • Fresh Basil Leaves Use dried basil (1 teaspoon) if fresh is unavailable.

Instructions

Steps

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 lb of ground beef and 1 finely diced onion. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
  • Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Mix in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and optional ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, then cook for another 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
  • Pour in 1 (14 oz) can of crushed tomatoes along with 2 ½ cups of beef broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • Carefully stir in 1 ½ cups of orzo pasta, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and absorbs most of the liquid.
  • Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, letting it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until everything is rich and creamy.
  • Finally, sprinkle ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss in the fresh basil leaves before serving it warm.
  • Serve with a slice of garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort.

Notes

Enjoy this dish immediately for the best creamy texture, as reheating can alter its consistency.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 500kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 700IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 250mg | Iron: 3mg
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