Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that comes together in a snap, then you’ve found it! This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is not just a dinner; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Imagine the savory aroma of beef mingling with garlic and tomatoes wafting through your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!

The best part? This one-pan wonder means fewer dishes to wash, leaving you more time to relax or catch up with loved ones after dinner. Whether it’s a family gathering or simply a cozy night at home, this dish fits every occasion beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 35 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, giving you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The creamy tomato sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and reheat for an easy lunch or dinner later in the week.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh basil and lean ground beef.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll love how simple and wholesome these components are. Let’s dive into what you need for this delicious Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil.

For the Main Dish:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños!
• Creamy alternatives: Use coconut cream or cashew cream if you want a dairy-free version.

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef along with the finely diced onion. Cook this mixture for about 6-8 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks until it’s nicely browned and softened. The onion should become translucent—this step adds great flavor to your dish!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once your beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic. Let that cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cooking these spices together enhances their flavors and gives your sauce depth.

Step 3: Mix in Tomatoes and Broth

Now it’s time to pour in that lovely crushed tomatoes along with the beef broth. Stir everything well to combine, then bring it all to a simmer. This step allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add in your orzo pasta next! Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover your skillet. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed. This creates that creamy texture we all crave!

Step 5: Stir in Cream

After your orzo has cooked perfectly, stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes until everything is creamy and delicious. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed!

Step 6: Serve with Cheese and Basil

Finally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your dish right before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that vibrant touch! Serve warm and watch everyone dig in happily.

Enjoy creating this delightful meal! It’s sure to become a beloved staple at your table.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

Cooking this delicious dish can be a breeze with a few simple tips to elevate your cooking game!

• Brown the beef thoroughly: Taking the time to brown the ground beef properly enhances the flavor of the entire dish. This creates those delicious caramelized bits that pack a punch of taste.

• Use fresh basil: Fresh herbs can make a world of difference! Adding fresh basil just before serving brightens up the flavors and gives the dish a lovely aroma.

• Adjust cream for richness: If you prefer a lighter version, consider reducing the amount of heavy cream or substituting it with half-and-half. This way, you can still enjoy a creamy texture without being overly rich.

• Stir often while cooking orzo: Orzo tends to stick together, so stirring it occasionally while it cooks prevents clumping and ensures even cooking.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking helps thicken the sauce, making every bite even more comforting and flavorful.

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

Presentation is key to making any meal feel special! Here are some ideas on how to serve up this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance.
• Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also introduces a fresh, earthy taste that balances the richness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing option!
• Mixed green salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: These colorful veggies add crunch and nutrients while complementing the flavors of the main dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add texture and sweetness that pairs nicely with the savory tomato cream sauce.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste fantastic, but it also stores wonderfully, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Got questions? Let’s clear up some common inquiries about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo in the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil?

Absolutely! While orzo adds a unique texture, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.

How can I make this dish healthier while keeping the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil flavor?

To lighten it up, consider using lean ground beef or substituting half of it with ground turkey. You can also use low-fat cream or a plant-based cream alternative to reduce calories without sacrificing taste.

What should I serve with Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil?

This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables can add color and nutrition to your meal. Garlic bread also complements it nicely!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil! It’s not just a recipe but a comforting meal that brings family together around the dinner table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your variations or experiences—I can’t wait to hear how you make it your own! Happy cooking!