Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is a dish that has become a staple in my kitchen. It combines tender orzo pasta with savory ground beef in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table!

There’s something special about how the flavors meld together in this dish. The fresh basil adds a bright touch, while the creamy sauce hugs every bite of orzo, providing comfort in every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike; its creamy texture and rich flavor make it irresistible!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal during those busy evenings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and fresh basil creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking this dish enjoyable and straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to personalize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a vegan twist.

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 the ground beef along with finely diced onion. Cooking them together for about 6-8 minutes will break up the beef while allowing the onion’s sweetness to develop. Once browned and softened, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor!

Step 2: Enhance the Flavor

Stir in tomato paste along with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Allowing these ingredients to cook together for just a couple of minutes helps intensify their flavors. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!

Step 3: Simmer Everything Together

Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine before bringing it all to a simmer. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook together.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add orzo pasta into the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and cover. Cooking for about 10-12 minutes while stirring occasionally ensures that the orzo becomes tender without sticking together—no one wants clumpy pasta!

Step 5: Create Creaminess

Once your orzo is cooked perfectly and most of the liquid has absorbed, stir in heavy cream. Letting it simmer for an additional few minutes transforms your dish into that creamy delight we all crave! Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over your steaming dish right before serving. Don’t forget to garnish generously with fresh basil leaves! This final touch adds not just flavor but also beautiful color that makes your meal pop.

Now you’re ready to serve warm bowls of happiness filled with Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking can be a breeze, especially when you have some handy tips up your sleeve! Here are a few suggestions to make your dish even more delightful:

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opting for lean ground beef will reduce excess grease in your dish, making it a healthier option while still being rich in flavor.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Incorporating fresh basil at the end not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the aroma and freshness of the dish, bringing it to life.
• Adjust Consistency with Broth: If you prefer a creamier or thinner sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of beef broth or heavy cream. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your liking.
• Sauté Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach along with the onions. This not only adds nutrition but also brings additional layers of flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. The flavors meld beautifully over time.

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

Presentation can turn a simple meal into something special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adding extra basil leaves just before serving gives a burst of freshness and makes the dish visually appealing.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A little sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds both flavor and an elegant touch that guests will appreciate.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes at the table allows everyone to customize their meal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser that complements this dish beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element while balancing the richness of the orzo, making your meal well-rounded.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add crispness and contrast against the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring a hint of sweetness and enhance the overall presentation on your plate.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish! It’s not just about satisfying hunger—it’s about creating moments around the table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is not only a delightful dinner option but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool to room temperature.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to revive the creamy texture.
• Microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Have burning questions about this recipe? Here are some common queries!

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While this recipe specifically calls for orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

How can I make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil healthier?

To lighten this dish, try using lean ground beef or turkey. You can also swap heavy cream for a lighter alternative like half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini will enhance nutrition too!

What should I serve with Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil?

This dish stands well on its own, but you could pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that your family will love. Cooking should be fun and fulfilling, so dive into this recipe and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!