Name: Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 0.5 medium onion, chopped; 3-4 cloves garlic, minced; 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 1 14 ounce can tomato sauce; 3/4 cup beef broth; 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh baby spinach ((packed)); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Ground Beef Orzo

When it comes to whipping up a delicious homemade meal, ground beef orzo really hits the mark. It's an all-in-one dish that's not only satisfying but also packed with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of tender orzo pasta and seasoned ground beef soaked in a creamy tomato sauce is a comforting embrace you won’t want to miss.

Ground beef is an excellent protein source, making it an easy choice for a variety of dishes. The versatility of orzo pasta couples perfectly with its hearty nature, creating a balanced meal that delivers on taste without overwhelming your schedule. Plus, adding fresh ingredients like spinach not only elevates the dish but also boosts its nutritional profile.

Curious about how this dish can simplify your meal prep? According to the USDA, incorporating quick-cooking ingredients like orzo into your meals can save you time while ensuring that you eat well. With fewer pots to clean and a flavor that satisfies everyone at the table, ground beef orzo should definitely have a spot in your recipe book! Are you ready to dive into our Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo

Creating a Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is all about using the right ingredients that blend beautifully together. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound lean ground beef: The star of the show! Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier dish.
½ medium onion, chopped: Adds a lovely sweetness and depth to the sauce.
3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better; it’s the ultimate flavor booster!
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat—feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that brings an authentic Italian flavor to your dish.
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: A fun pasta choice that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce.
1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce: This is what creates that luscious, creamy sauce.
¾ cup beef broth: Enhances the beefy flavor while keeping the dish moist.
1 cup heavy/whipping cream: For that irresistible creaminess you’ll crave.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor.
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged.
2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: A nutrition boost that also adds color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for balance.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re just a few steps away from a cozy, satisfying meal! If you’re new to cooking with orzo, this guide can help you get started.

Step-by-step Preparation of Ground Beef Orzo

Step 1: Brown the ground beef
Start your ground beef orzo adventure by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and use a spatula to break it into smaller pieces. Don’t rush this process; let it cook for about 5-6 minutes without stirring. This initial browning is essential—it locks in the delicious flavors. You want that nice golden-brown crust that adds depth to your dish. If you happen to use a fattier blend, feel free to spoon out excess fat before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Add onions and garlic
Now that the beef is nicely browned, it’s time to introduce some aromatics! Toss in ½ of a medium onion, finely chopped, and give everything a good stir. Cook the mixture for another 5 minutes until the onions are softened. Don’t forget to include 3-4 cloves of minced garlic during the last minute of cooking—this is where the magic happens. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Step 3: Mix in the seasonings and orzo
Once your kitchen smells divine, it's time to add layers of flavor. Stir in ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, depending on your spice tolerance) and ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Next, mix in 1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta. Toss everything together for about a minute; you want the orzo to get coated in those fabulous seasonings.

Step 4: Combine with tomato sauce and cream
Now we’ll build a luscious sauce! Pour in 1 (14-ounce) can of tomato sauce, ¾ cup of beef broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, and a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble. Keep in mind that you might need to lower the heat to medium or medium-low. This simmering magic should last for about 10 minutes—stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Stir in spinach and cheese
Finally, it’s time for the finishing touches! Remove the pot from heat and fold in 2 cups of fresh baby spinach and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the pot and let it sit for about 3-5 minutes so that the spinach wilts and the flavors meld beautifully. Taste your creation and season with salt and pepper as needed. This ground beef orzo dish is now ready to serve—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!

Feel free to get creative and pair this meal with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Happy cooking!

Variations on Ground Beef Orzo

Swap with Ground Turkey or Chicken

If you're looking for a lighter option in your ground beef orzo, consider swapping out beef for ground turkey or ground chicken. Both alternatives are lower in fat and can bring a different yet delicious flavor to the dish. Just remember to adjust the seasoning slightly, as poultry may benefit from a bit more spice or herbs to enrich the taste.

Add More Vegetables for a Nutrition Boost

Why not amp up the nutritional value of your ground beef orzo? Incorporating vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli can transform your meal. These veggies not only add color and texture but also provide added vitamins and minerals. Plus, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate flavor profiles and even make the dish look more appealing. Enhance your culinary skills while fueling your body!

For more insights on incorporating veggies, check out this nutrition resource.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Ground Beef Orzo

Cooking ground beef orzo can be quite a delightful experience! Here are some handy tips to enhance your dish:

Choose Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage also works well.
Flavor Depth: Feel free to experiment with spices. Adding a touch of smoked paprika or fresh basil can elevate the flavor profile.
Pasta Cooking: Stirring frequently is key to prevent the orzo from sticking! If you're short on time, you can cook the orzo separately, then mix it in.
Cream Alternatives: If you want to lighten things up, consider substituting half of the cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Enjoy creating this comforting dish! For more tips, check out this excellent pasta guide.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Orzo

Transform your ground beef orzo into a delightful meal fit for any occasion. Here are some friendly serving suggestions to elevate your dish:

Fresh Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a burst of flavor and freshness.
Cheese Love: Increase the umami factor by offering extra grated parmesan or a sprinkle of feta on top.
Pair it Up: Serve alongside a vibrant salad, like a classic Caesar or a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Make it Special: For a cozy night in, pair your dish with warm garlic bread for a delightful bread-dipping experience.
Have Fun: Experiment with toppings like crispy turkey bacon for a smoky touch or even roasted vegetables for added nutrition.

No matter how you serve it, your ground beef orzo will surely impress! For more ideas and recipes, check out these resources on healthy eating from Nutrition.gov and EatRight.org.

Time Breakdown for Ground Beef Orzo

Preparing a delicious ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce is quick and straightforward! Here’s how the time stacks up for making this delightful dish.

Preparation time

Spend about 10 minutes gathering your ingredients and chopping the onion and garlic. Getting organized helps things flow smoothly in the kitchen.

Cooking time

The cooking process will take around 25 minutes. This includes browning the beef, cooking the orzo, and allowing everything to meld together in that delicious cream sauce.

Total time

In total, from start to finish, you're looking at approximately 35 minutes. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal without taking up your whole evening!

For more insights, check out this cooking time guide. Cooking made simple!

Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef Orzo

When indulging in a comforting dish like ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce, knowing its nutritional value can help you make informed choices. Here’s a quick breakdown of important nutritional facts:

Calories

One serving contains approximately 450 calories, making it a hearty option for refueling after a busy day.

Protein

With 30 grams of protein per serving, this dish is an excellent source of this vital macronutrient, perfect for muscle repair and growth.

Sodium

Each serving has around 700 mg of sodium, so if you're watching your salt intake, consider adjusting the seasoning to suit your dietary needs.

For more insights on balancing your meals, check out resources like the USDA MyPlate guidelines for smart nutrition choices.

FAQs about Ground Beef Orzo

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Ground beef orzo is perfect for meal prep. Cook the dish as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, consider preparing the sauce separately and combining everything just before serving to keep the orzo from getting too soft.

What can I use instead of orzo?

If you don't have orzo on hand, there are several alternatives! You could use small pasta shapes like * couscous, or acini di pepe* for a similar texture. Quinoa or even rice can work well, but be sure to adjust cooking times and liquid amounts accordingly.

How do I store leftovers of ground beef orzo?

Leftover ground beef orzo can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for about three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of beef broth or water to help regain its creamy texture. You can also freeze it for up to three months—just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.

For more food storage tips, check out guides on The USDA's food safety website.

Conclusion on Ground Beef Orzo

In conclusion, ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce is a delightful dish that balances flavors, texture, and comfort, perfect for a weeknight meal. It’s easy to prepare and offers a satisfying experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy this recipe and make it your own!

For more delicious ideas, don’t hesitate to check out these healthy pasta recipes or explore tips on how to enhance your pasta dishes here!