Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil
This one-pan ground beef orzo is cooked in a creamy tomato sauce for a simple, flavorful dinner that’s perfect for busy nights.
Equipment
- large skillet
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Cutting Board and Knife
- measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce
- 1 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Orzo
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
For Garnish
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and finely diced onion. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the beef, until browned and softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Add orzo to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm.
Notes
Use a high-quality broth for best flavor. Cook orzo gently to prevent sticking. Warm the cream before adding it to prevent curdling. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
Serving: 1bowlCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!