This Easy Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce is a comforting dish that brings together tender beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s creamy, cheesy, and simply delicious!
I love how quick this meal comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the kids always ask for seconds—who can resist creamy goodness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 85% lean beef for a balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too, though it may alter the dish’s richness slightly.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is great for this dish. If you don’t have orzo, feel free to substitute with other small pasta types like ditalini or mini shells.
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, heavy cream is perfect. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or even a plant-based cream can be used, but the consistency may change a bit.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: While I love Parmesan for its sharp flavor, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a plant-based cheese if you’re vegan. Just adjust the amount according to taste!
How Do I Get the Perfect Flavor in the Beef?
Getting rich flavor from the beef is crucial in this dish. When cooking, don’t rush it! Here’s how to achieve the best results:
- First, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef. This helps create a nice sear, boosting the flavor.
- Break the beef into small pieces using a spoon for even cooking and browning. Let it sit for a minute before stirring, which allows it to caramelize.
- Add onions and garlic after browning the beef, allowing them to soften in the flavorful juices. This enhances the overall taste!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious beef base that shines through in your creamy orzo dish!
How to Make Easy Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. In just 10-12 minutes, the orzo will cook perfectly in the creamy sauce, making it a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, using a spoon to break it up as it cooks until it’s nicely browned.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the mixture until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. This will add great flavor to your dish!
3. Toasting the Orzo:
Now, stir in the orzo pasta and cook it for 1-2 minutes. This helps to lightly toast the pasta, enhancing its flavor before we add the liquids.
4. Adding the Sauces:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add the dried oregano, optional basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together well.
5. Cooking the Orzo:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the orzo to be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
6. Making it Creamy:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until it is well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
7. Serving:
Serve your Easy Beef Orzo immediately in bowls. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like. Enjoy the creamy comfort of this dish!
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite with its hearty flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, so you may want to add extra seasoning to enhance the taste.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No worries! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like ditalini, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, following package instructions.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if it appears too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or an assortment of diced vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version!
