Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

If you’re looking for a comforting dinner that’s both simple and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is one of my all-time favorites. It’s a dish that brings back memories of cozy weeknights spent around the table with family. The creamy tomato sauce hugs the orzo perfectly, making each bite feel like a warm hug.

Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or planning a family gathering, this recipe is a lifesaver. It comes together in just one pan, leaving you with less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just one pan and 35 minutes, dinner is served without the hassle.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone will love the creamy tomato sauce combined with tender orzo and seasoned beef.
• Comforting flavors: The blend of fresh basil and rich Parmesan takes each bite to the next level.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep this dish earlier in the day and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile ingredients: Use what you have on hand or customize it to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that create a delicious meal everyone will love. Let’s gather what we need for our comforting Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil!

Ingredients:
– 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
• Change the cheese: Use mozzarella or feta instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.

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 for about 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion has softened. Breaking up the beef ensures even cooking, while sautéing the onion adds sweetness to your dish.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic, followed by the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let everything cook for another 1-2 minutes. This step is important because it helps deepen the flavors of your sauce.

Step 3: Pour in Tomatoes and Broth

Now it’s time to add in that lusciousness! Pour in your can of crushed tomatoes along with the beef broth. Stir everything together well before bringing it to a simmer. This mixture forms the base of your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add in your orzo pasta, reduce heat to medium-low, and cover. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes while stirring occasionally until most of the liquid is absorbed. Cooking orzo this way allows it to soak up all those delicious flavors from the sauce.

Step 5: Stir in Cream

Once your orzo is tender, it’s time for richness! Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until everything is creamy and perfectly combined. Taste test here—you might want to adjust seasoning!

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Basil

Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over your dish and don’t forget those lovely fresh basil leaves as garnish. Serve warm and enjoy every comforting bite!

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

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have some handy tips to make it even easier!

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Choosing lean ground beef reduces excess fat in your dish, making it healthier without sacrificing flavor. This also helps the sauce maintain a creamy texture without being greasy.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, opt for fresh basil and high-quality tomatoes. Fresh ingredients brighten the flavors and elevate the overall taste of your meal, making every bite more enjoyable.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes or reduce their amount. Tailoring the spice level ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy the dish according to their taste preferences.
• Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can cook it in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully over time.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan adds a delightful richness, feel free to mix it up by trying other cheeses like mozzarella or even a sprinkle of feta for an extra flavor twist. This personalizes the dish to your liking.

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

Presenting your meal beautifully makes it even more appetizing! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful one-pan dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A handful of freshly torn basil leaves not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma and flavor of the dish.
• Grated Cheese: Sprinkle additional Parmesan or any cheese of your choice on top just before serving for a nice finishing touch that melts slightly into the warm sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A side of buttery garlic bread complements the creamy tomato sauce perfectly. It’s great for dipping and adds a comforting element to your meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad made with assorted greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the orzo.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans add not just color but also nutrition. Their crunchiness balances out the creamy texture of the main dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots bring out natural sweetness through caramelization and pair wonderfully with this savory meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience that your family will look forward to time and again! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights while enjoying a delicious homemade meal. With just a few simple steps, you can ensure your leftovers stay fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Label containers with the date and name of the dish.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While this recipe features orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even macaroni. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

How do I make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply swap out the ground beef for your favorite plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms. Adjust seasonings as needed for flavor.

Can I prepare Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook everything in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that brings family together around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking!