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–+ servings
Benjamin

Savory Ground Beef and Orzo Recipe for Family Dinners

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!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Season:Season the mixture with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Stir to combine.
  4. Add Orzo and Liquids:Stir in the orzo, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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