If you are craving a comforting yet elegant one-pan meal, this Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked orzo, and a luscious tomato cream sauce that’s bursting with flavor and warmth. The creamy tomato sauce drenched over the tiny pasta pearls creates an irresistible texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish never fails to impress with its rich taste and simple preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, blending to create a symphony of flavors and textures. From the savory ground beef to the creamy Parmesan cheese, each component is essential in delivering that authentic, satisfying experience of this dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and rich flavor, forming the savory base of the dish.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Offers a sweet and aromatic foundation when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that elevates the overall flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Brings in robust tomato flavor and a slight tang.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato richness and thickens the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds earthy, herbaceous undertones typical of Mediterranean cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Provides fresh, slightly sweet herbal notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a silky, luscious sauce that brings everything together.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish to the dish.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Introduces a burst of color and fresh herb aroma.
How to Make Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions, which usually means boiling until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain the orzo and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is key for building a sweet, savory base for your sauce.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until your kitchen fills with that inviting aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef
Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned on all sides. This adds a rich, meaty flavor that’s crucial for the dish’s heartiness.
Step 5: Combine Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix everything together. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Add the Cream
Pour in the heavy cream and continue simmering for another 5 minutes. This step thickens the sauce and lends a velvety texture that makes every bite heavenly.
Step 7: Incorporate Orzo and Cheese
Finally, stir the cooked orzo and Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Mix until the cheese melts and the orzo is fully coated in the rich tomato cream sauce.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish rest for a couple of minutes. This pause lets the flavors settle. Top with fresh basil or parsley if you like, adding a fresh and colorful touch.
How to Serve Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add a pop of vibrant green but also introduce crisp, refreshing notes that cut through the richness of the sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese can also add an indulgent salty kick right on top.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to mop up every last drop of the tomato cream sauce. Roasted vegetables also add great texture contrast and color to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe in shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic vibe, or plate it elegantly with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a special occasion. Adding a small wedge of lemon on the side can brighten the dish further when squeezed over at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind the orzo might absorb sauce and change texture slightly. For best results, freeze without the cream and add it fresh when reheating after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Microwaving is fine for quick reheats but may dry out the dish slightly.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work great and will still complement the creamy tomato sauce beautifully.
Is there a way to make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Instead of heavy cream, try using coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free and equally creamy sauce.
Can I use a different pasta than orzo?
Sure thing. Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, ditalini, or even tiny shells can be swapped in if you don’t have orzo on hand.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and comforting. If you love heat, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing step.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead for a crowd?
Yes, you can cook the beef and sauce portion in advance, then toss in freshly cooked orzo just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is a beautiful balance of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a warm, delicious hug after a long day. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to comfort meals!
Print
Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting and hearty one-pan dish that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a rich tomato cream sauce infused with aromatic herbs. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the orzo according to package instructions until tender. Drain well and set aside to be combined later with the sauce.
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Brown the Beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until it is thoroughly browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Lower heat to a simmer and cook gently for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Incorporate Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and continue to simmer another 5 minutes. This will thicken the sauce slightly and add creaminess.
- Combine Orzo and Cheese: Add the cooked orzo and grated Parmesan into the sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Final Touch and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the dish to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley as desired before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Use gluten-free orzo to make this recipe gluten-free.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent curdling of the cream sauce.
