Description
A hearty and creamy ground beef and orzo pasta dish simmered in a rich tomato cream sauce, finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fragrant basil leaves. This one-pan meal combines tender orzo pasta with savory browned beef, aromatic garlic and onions, and a luscious tomato cream sauce for a comforting family-friendly dinner ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
Dry Goods and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the beef and cook aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and 1 finely diced onion. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste and seasonings: Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and ½ tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Add crushed tomatoes and broth: Pour in the 14 oz can of crushed tomatoes and 2 ½ cups beef broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the orzo: Add 1 ½ cups of orzo pasta to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the orzo cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with cream: Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until creamy and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Add cheese and basil: Sprinkle ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir gently to combine. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving warm.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the beef broth slightly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stove or microwave.
