Description
Creamy, cozy, and oh-so-satisfying! This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a one-pan weeknight hero. It’s packed with savory beef, tender orzo, and a rich tomato cream sauce that hugs every bite. Simple to make, yet impressive enough to serve guests!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.Sauté the Aromatics:
Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.Season:
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Stir to combine.Add Orzo and Liquids:
Stir in the orzo, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.Make it Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and well blended.Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth or cream before serving.
- Want extra veggies? Stir in spinach or peas in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American