Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this dish shines as a comforting meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It combines hearty ground beef with orzo pasta in a luscious tomato sauce, making it versatile enough for casual dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in one pan, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy tomato sauce and fresh basil elevates the taste, making every bite satisfying.
• Versatile Meal Option: Suitable for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild flavors, this dish is sure to please even picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A must-have for cooking everything in one pan, ensuring even cooking and minimizing cleanup.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware while helping you break up the ground beef evenly.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect consistency in your sauce.
• Measuring spoons: Essential for precise seasoning, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.

Ingredients

For this delicious Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil, gather the following ingredients:

For the Main Dish

• 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

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

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef along with 1 finely diced onion. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Enhance the Flavor

Stir in 1 tbsp of tomato paste, along with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes (½ tsp). Cook this mixture for another 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes (14 oz) and add in 2 ½ cups of beef broth. Stir everything together well and bring it to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add in 1 ½ cups of orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Create a Creamy Texture

Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve

Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over your dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce!

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

This delicious Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will delight your family and guests.

Family-Style Serving

• Serve the orzo directly from the skillet on the dining table for a casual, family-style meal. This encourages everyone to help themselves and keeps the atmosphere relaxed.

Garnished Bowls

• Dish the creamy orzo into individual bowls and garnish each serving with extra fresh basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich tomato cream sauce, adding a delightful texture to each bite.

Paired with a Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad. The crispness of the salad complements the creamy orzo, creating a balanced meal that feels light yet satisfying.

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

To make your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil even more delightful, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ground beef and high-quality crushed tomatoes to ensure rich flavors in your sauce.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes. For more spice, feel free to add additional seasonings like cayenne pepper.
• Cook Orzo Al Dente: Monitor the cooking time for the orzo closely. Aim for al dente texture for a satisfying bite that holds up against the creamy sauce.
• Experiment with Herbs: While basil is fantastic, try adding other herbs like oregano or parsley for a different flavor twist.
• Make Ahead of Time: Prepare this dish in advance. It reheats well and can save time on busy weeknights while still tasting great.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

Complement your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil with these delightful side dishes that pair beautifully together.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic butter makes an excellent accompaniment for this creamy orzo dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides crunch and balances out the creaminess of the main dish.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans seasoned with salt add a fresh touch that contrasts well with the richness of the orzo.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing palette cleanser between bites.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Seasoned grilled zucchini brings a smoky flavor that complements the savory notes in your beef orzo dish.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy texture that brightens up each bite of creamy pasta.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with savory dishes and adds sweetness that enhances overall flavors in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe like Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping the onion: Onions add depth to your dish. Always sauté them until they’re soft before adding other ingredients.
• Not browning the beef: Properly browning the beef enhances its flavor. Make sure to let it sear well before moving on to the next steps.
• Ignoring the liquid amount: If you don’t use enough broth, your orzo may turn out too dry. Measure carefully to ensure a creamy consistency.
• Overcooking orzo: Cook orzo until just tender; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta. Keep an eye on it and taste occasionally.
• Forgetting seasoning adjustments: After adding cream and cheese, taste the dish again. You may need more salt or pepper for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring between intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Use low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions that often come up about making Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil.

How do I make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil vegetarian?

You can substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. Adjust the broth accordingly to maintain flavor.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! You can replace orzo with any small pasta shape like ditalini or even rice for a different texture.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?

Try using coconut cream or a mixture of milk and cornstarch as a thickener for a lighter option while keeping it creamy.

How do I store leftover Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The creamy tomato sauce combined with fresh basil makes this dish versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!