This creamy tomato ground beef orzo dinner is a cozy meal that’s quick to make. With tender orzo, juicy beef, and a luscious tomato sauce, it’s a real treat for the taste buds!
Honestly, I love how it all cooks in one pot—less mess for me! Plus, the creaminess makes it feel like a hug in a bowl. Don’t be surprised if you want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef for less fat, or substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative!
Orzo Pasta: While orzo brings a nice texture, you can switch it out for other small pasta shapes like couscous, rice, or even quinoa for a gluten-free version.
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking to cut fat, half-and-half works well, or opt for cashew or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. Just note that substitutes might change the dish’s richness a bit.
Beef Broth: For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute. Just make sure it has a good flavor profile to keep the dish tasty.
How Do I Ensure the Orzo is Cooked to Perfection?
Cooking orzo can be tricky if you’re not paying attention. To get it just right, follow these steps:
- Once you bring the broth to a boil, immediately add the orzo. This helps it cook evenly.
- Cover and reduce the heat to low. This keeps the moisture in, ensuring the orzo absorbs enough liquid.
- Check the orzo around the 10-minute mark. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- If it looks too dry, add a splash more broth or water and keep cooking until tender.
Using these techniques will help you achieve creamy, dreamy orzo that pairs perfectly with the beef and tomato flavors!
Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or a mix of oregano and basil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing your ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking. In no time at all, you’ll have a warm, creamy meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, just until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells delightful.
2. Brown the Beef:
Now, it’s time to add the ground beef. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s extra fat, feel free to drain it off to keep your dish healthier.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Once the beef is cooked through, add the tomato paste (if you’re using it), diced tomatoes (with all their juice), beef broth or water, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, add the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the orzo from sticking. You want the orzo to be tender and absorb most of the liquid.
5. Add Creaminess:
When the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Gently heat it through, making sure not to boil the mixture, as we want that creamy texture to stay smooth.
6. Final Touches:
Now, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to suit your preference. It should taste comforting and delicious!
7. Serve It Up:
Transfer your creamy tomato ground beef orzo into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil. If you like, top it off with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting tomato ground beef orzo dinner! Dinner is served! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef if you want a leaner option. Just cook it in the same way as you would the ground beef, and you’ll still end up with a delicious dish!
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No worries! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can easily replace it with another small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even small rice grains like arborio or risotto rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to your chosen pasta!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free milk alternative, like almond or cashew cream. It’ll still be creamy and delicious without the dairy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to retain moisture, or microwave until warmed through.
