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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Delight

A comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef and orzo in a rich tomato cream sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Base
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Provides protein and richness; swap for ground turkey for a lighter version.
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth; use shallots for a different flavor.
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor significantly; garlic powder works in a pinch.
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Adds a hint of spice; omit for a milder dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning Offers herbaceous notes; substitute with oregano for a classic twist.
For the Pasta & Sauce
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta Gives a unique texture similar to risotto; use acini di pepe for a small pasta alternative.
  • 1 14 ounce can tomato sauce Forms the sauce base; crushed tomatoes can be used for chunkiness.
  • 3/4 cup beef broth Adds moisture; vegetable broth can create a vegetarian-friendly option.
  • 1 cup heavy/whipping cream Provides creaminess; use half-and-half for a lighter take.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Delivers umami depth; soy sauce works well as a substitute.
For the Final Touch
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese Brings salty, nutty flavor; Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach Adds nutrition and freshness; kale or Swiss chard can substitute.
  • Salt & pepper, to taste Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your preference.

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat and add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook for 5-6 minutes without stirring, allowing it to brown nicely before breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon.
  2. Next, add 1/2 medium chopped onion to the browned beef in the pot. Stir occasionally and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and softens.
  3. Once the onions are softened, mix in 3-4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook everything together for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta, followed by 1 (14 ounce) can of tomato sauce, 3/4 cup of beef broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Check the orzo for tenderness after 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and mix in 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 2 cups of packed fresh baby spinach.
  6. Cover the pot and let it sit for 3-5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the spinach to wilt. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.

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