Ground Beef Orzo Tomato Cream (Print-Friendly Version)
Tender orzo and ground beef in creamy tomato sauce, finished with basil for a flavorful, simple one-pan meal.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Base
01 -
1 pound ground beef
02 -
1 small onion, finely diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Sauce
04 -
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
05 -
1 cup heavy cream
06 -
1 tablespoon tomato paste
07 -
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
08 -
Salt, to taste
09 -
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Orzo
10 -
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
11 -
2 1/2 cups beef broth
→ Garnish
12 -
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
13 -
Fresh basil leaves
# How to Make It:
01 -
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion. Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the beef, until browned and onions are softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
02 -
Incorporate tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to intensify flavors.
03 -
Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
04 -
Add orzo pasta to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
05 -
Stir in heavy cream and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
06 -
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Use high-quality beef broth for a richer taste and gently stir orzo during cooking to prevent sticking.
02 -
Warm the cream before adding it to avoid curdling in the sauce.
03 -
For best results, enjoy the dish immediately while the texture is creamy and the orzo is perfectly tender.