Name: Christmas M&m Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce wafting through the kitchen. This dish brings together tender orzo, savory ground beef, and a luscious tomato cream sauce in a symphony of flavors that feels both indulgent and familiar.

I first whipped up this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty yet quick. Little did I know it would become a go-to family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your dinner rotation!

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that's as versatile as it is satisfying. This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a one-pan wonder that checks all the boxes for an easy and delicious meal.

First, it’s incredibly quick to make. From start to finish, you can have this flavorful dish on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when time is of the essence.

It’s also a fantastic budget-friendly option. With simple, pantry-staple ingredients like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and orzo, you can whip up a meal that’s both affordable and impressive.

Not to mention, it’s super versatile. Whether you prefer a mild dish for picky eaters or something spicier for adventurous palates, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite seasonings and toppings.

Finally, cleanup is a breeze. With everything cooking in one pan, you’ll save time scrubbing dishes and spend more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the key components that make this dish shine.

Ground beef is the star of the show. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.

Orzo serves as the perfect base. This tiny, rice-shaped pasta absorbs the creamy tomato sauce beautifully, creating a rich and hearty texture. If orzo isn’t available, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous can work as substitutes.

Canned crushed tomatoes provide the base for the sauce. Look for high-quality tomatoes for a sweeter, richer flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice if available.

Heavy cream brings a luxurious creaminess to the dish. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich.

Garlic and onion add depth and aroma. Freshly minced garlic and finely diced onion are key to creating a robust base for the sauce.

For equipment, all you’ll need is a large skillet or sauté pan with a lid. This helps the orzo cook evenly while keeping the flavors locked in.

How To Make This Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

Creating this comforting dish is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and dinner will be ready in no time!

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper, then remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then sauté diced onion until translucent. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant – about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and a splash of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in a teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Stir in the uncooked orzo, making sure it’s evenly distributed in the sauce. Return the browned ground beef to the skillet, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the orzo is tender, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.

Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, then serve hot. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is creamy and the flavors are vibrant.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to resist finishing it all!), this dish stores beautifully.

Refrigerate the cooled Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a blank canvas for customization. Here are some fun variations to try:

Spicy twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of harissa for a fiery kick.
Cheesy upgrade: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese at the end for an extra gooey sauce.
Veggie boost: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach, diced zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Herby finish: Swap parsley for fresh basil or dill for a fresh, aromatic twist.
Low-carb alternative: Replace the orzo with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option that still soaks up the delicious sauce.

No matter how you tweak it, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is guaranteed to please. Experiment with flavors and make it your own – the possibilities are endless!