This Easy Beef Orzo with Creamy Tomato Sauce is a cozy dish perfect for busy nights! It’s got tender beef, soft orzo pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce that makes every bite comforting.
I love how quick it is to make! You just cook everything in one pot, and dinner feels fancy without the fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! 🥕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you’re looking for a different flavor, ground turkey or chicken can work well too. They’ll still give you that hearty feel!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors wonderfully. If you don’t have orzo, you can try small pasta like ditalini, mini shells, or even rice if necessary. Adjust cooking time if switching to rice.
Tomato Sauce: I love using tomato sauce for its smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier bite, choose crushed tomatoes. You can even blend diced tomatoes for a more homemade taste!
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess, but you can replace it with half-and-half, sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Coconut cream can give a unique twist for those avoiding dairy!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil really brightens this dish, but if you only have dried, use it sparingly since it’s stronger. Oregano can also be a fantastic substitute for a different herb flavor.
How Do I Cook the Orzo and Beef Without It Sticking?
Cooking orzo perfectly is key to this dish. Here’s how:
- Use a large skillet to allow for even cooking. The more space, the less sticking!
- Once you add the orzo and broth, stir it in well. This will coat the pasta and prevent it from clumping together.
- As it cooks, stir occasionally. This promotes even cooking and keeps the orzo from settling at the bottom where it can stick.
- Cook it on low heat after bringing it to a boil. This gentle simmer helps the orzo absorb liquid without sticking.
Following these tips will help you achieve a creamy, delicious dish without any sticky mess! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Beef Orzo with Creamy Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1½ cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1½ to 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil (or use fresh basil for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced thinly, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty meal will take you about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. So, in just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Then, add the chopped onion and diced carrot. Cook those together, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until it smells wonderful. Then, add in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, and season it with salt, pepper, oregano, and dried basil.
3. Mix in the Orzo:
Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta! Stir it in well, making sure it’s nicely coated with all those tasty flavors from the beef and veggies.
4. Incorporate Tomato Sauce and Broth:
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. This is where the magic starts to happen!
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Once boiling, lower the heat to low, put a lid on your pan, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the orzo from sticking, and cook until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Stir in the Cream:
After the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream. This is what gives your dish that rich, creamy texture! Taste it and add a bit more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious beef orzo hot! Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this comforting meal that’s ready in no time!
This meal is sure to become a favorite! It’s warm, fulfilling, and oh-so-tasty—perfect for any night of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked through, as turkey can sometimes take a little less time to brown.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply increase the amount of vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and it’ll be just as delicious!
What Can I Do with Leftover Orzo?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of extra broth or cream to loosen it up if it’s become too thick.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze it! Make sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
These FAQs should help you navigate any common questions while preparing your Easy Beef Orzo with Creamy Tomato Sauce! Enjoy your cooking!
