I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped up this delightful dish after a long day at work. Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is not just a dinner option; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. You know those days where you want something that feels like home but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? This recipe hits the spot every time. Plus, it reminds me of my college days when I was just figuring out how to cook (spoiler alert: I burned a lot of things before getting here!).
This dish is a fantastic blend of flavors, and I love how the creamy tomato sauce wraps around the orzo and beef. It’s everything you want in comfort food—a little indulgent, a little bit fancy, yet simple enough to prepare on any weeknight. I promise, after one bite, you’ll understand why this has become a staple in my cooking repertoire!
What’s in Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?
Let’s break down what makes this recipe so delicious. Each ingredient plays a vital role, and I have my favorites that I like to stick with:
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I typically go for 80/20 lean beef—it’s juicy enough to add great flavor without being overly greasy.
Orzo Pasta: Miniature pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy sauce. It’s like rice but in a pasta form! You can find it in most grocery stores, and it’s just as versatile.
Diced Tomatoes: A can of these adds acidity and sweetness, which balances the richness of the cream. I love using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor!
Heavy Cream: Ah, the secret ingredient! It brings everything together with its lusciousness. You could substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten it, but I say go for the cream!
Spinach: A great way to sneak in some green! It wilts beautifully into the dish and adds a nice nutritional boost.
Onion and Garlic: The flavor foundation of almost any savory dish. Sauté them until they’re soft and aromatic, and you’ll instantly elevate the entire meal.
Dried Oregano and Basil: Perfect Italian flavorings that bring warmth and earthiness. Fresh herbs are great too, but dried is more convenient for weeknight cooking.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Don’t skimp on these!
Parmesan Cheese: Because everything is better with cheese! It adds a savory punch and rich creaminess. I like to sprinkle a little extra on top for serving.
Olive Oil: Just a bit for sautéing; I always prefer extra virgin olive oil for its depth of flavor.
Is Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Good for You?
Now, I know what you’re thinking—can comfort food really be good for you? Here’s the scoop:
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and iron, which is fantastic for muscle repair and energy. Just keep an eye on your portion size if you’re watching your intake.
Orzo: As a pasta, it provides quick carbohydrates, perfect for a boost of energy! Whole wheat orzo is available for those looking for added fiber.
Spinach: This leafy green is a nutrition powerhouse. It’s loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a bit healthier.
Heavy Cream: While delicious and rich, it’s high in calories and fat. But hey, everything in moderation! A little splash can make a meal feel luxurious without going overboard.
Overall, enjoy this dish guilt-free, remembering that a cozy meal can also be a nourishing one!
The Ingredients You’ll Need:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for lunch the next day!
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Season it with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil—oh, that aroma!
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow those fantastic flavors to meld beautifully.
4. It’s time for the orzo! Add it to the skillet along with 2 cups of water or broth. Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, letting it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce is heated through—trust me, this step is worth the wait!
6. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary—a little salt or pepper can go a long way!
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Dig in and relish every bite!
Perfect Pairings for Your Dish
Here’s where it gets fun; you can definitely elevate this meal with a few variations! Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving for that vibrant freshness. If you want a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick. And don’t forget to serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad!
I really hope you give this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce a try! It’s truly a dish made with love, perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you, so please share your experiences or any fun twists you put on it! Happy cooking, my friends!
