Ground Beef Orzo Tomato Cream (Print-Friendly Recipe)
Flavorful ground beef and orzo combine in a creamy tomato sauce. Easy, comforting, and ready in under 40 minutes.
# Ingredients List:
→ 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 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ Orzo
10 -
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
11 -
2 1/2 cups beef broth
→ Garnish
12 -
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
13 -
Fresh basil leaves
# How to Make It:
01 -
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the beef as it cooks, until browned and onions are soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
02 -
Stir in tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to intensify the flavors.
03 -
Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
04 -
Add orzo pasta to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
05 -
Stir in heavy cream. Simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
06 -
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.
# Extra Information:
01 -
Warm the cream before adding to the sauce to prevent curdling and preserve a smooth texture.
02 -
Use high-quality beef broth for enhanced savory depth.
03 -
Stir orzo occasionally while cooking to ensure even absorption and prevent sticking.
04 -
Serve immediately for optimal creaminess and tenderness.