Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring lean ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce, it’s a one-pot meal that combines savory flavors with a rich, creamy texture. The addition of fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese adds a burst of color and extra flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy nights when you need a quick, comforting meal. With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s a family-friendly dinner that everyone will love. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
• 3/4 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a soup pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes without stirring, allowing the beef to brown.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot, then stir the beef into small pieces. Cook for another 5 minutes. If there’s excess fat from the beef, spoon some out. If you used lean beef, leave the fat in the pot.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, and uncooked orzo. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the orzo to toast slightly.
4. Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent the orzo from sticking. If the heat is too high, reduce it to medium or medium-low so the liquid simmers gently.
5. Once the orzo is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Cover and let it sit for 3-5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken to your liking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Easy to prepare and clean up, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
• Creamy & Flavorful: The combination of tomato sauce, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the orzo and beef beautifully.
• Loaded with Veggies: Fresh spinach adds a nutritious boost to the dish, offering a touch of color and flavor.
• Quick & Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, this meal is both delicious and efficient.

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Tips

• Lean Beef: Using lean ground beef reduces excess fat in the dish, but if you use regular beef, remember to spoon out the excess grease.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
• Watch the Liquid: Ensure the liquid doesn’t reduce too much before the orzo is fully cooked. If needed, add a little extra broth or water to maintain the right consistency.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Ground Meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a leaner or different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese to make the dish dairy-free.
• Herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano for extra herbal flavor, or switch up the Italian seasoning with your favorite dried herbs.
• Veggies: Add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the dish for added texture and nutrition.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or ditalini, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently when ready to serve. You may need to add a bit of extra liquid when reheating.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dish after it’s been fully cooked. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve this creamy ground beef orzo with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.