why make this recipe
This dish is simple, warm, and filling. You get beef, pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce in one pot. It cooks fast and makes a good weeknight dinner. If you like quick beef pasta ideas, check this simple version: high-protein creamy beef pasta.
introduction
This Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Orzo Dinner mixes browned beef with tomatoes, broth, orzo, and cream. The orzo soaks up the sauce and makes the dish smooth. It is easy to make and the flavors are mild and cozy.
how to make Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Follow the steps below and cook in one large pot. Use medium heat and taste as you go. For best results, keep stirring when you add the orzo so it cooks evenly.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions :
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until onion is translucent.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Add orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
how to serve Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Serve hot in bowls. Add fresh basil on top. You can add grated Parmesan if you like. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables go well with it.
how to store Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Let the dish cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat and add a splash of broth or water if it is too thick. You can freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
- Brown the beef well for better flavor.
- Use low heat when you add cream to avoid curdling.
- If you want more veggies, add chopped bell peppers or spinach when you add the tomatoes.
- For a richer taste, cook the orzo a minute less than package time, then finish in the sauce.
- For another simple beef meal idea, see this easy hamburger steak recipe: easy hamburger steak.
variation (if any)
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for less fat.
- Stir in a handful of spinach at the end for color and nutrition.
- Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes. Small shapes like ditalini or small shells work. Cook time may change.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Use plant-based ground meat or extra vegetables and vegetable broth instead of beef.
Q: Do I have to use heavy cream?
A: No. You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream, but the sauce will be lighter.
Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
A: Yes. Store in the fridge and reheat. Add a little liquid when reheating to keep it creamy.
Conclusion
This recipe is a quick, creamy one-pot dinner that the whole family can enjoy. For another version with a similar tomato cream idea, try this detailed recipe: Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce • Salt & Lavender. You can also see a Spanish take on the same idea here: Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil ….
Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until onion is translucent.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
- Add orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh basil.
- Optional: Add grated Parmesan cheese on top.