Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil
Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is a delightful, creamy dish perfect for busy weeknights. This one-pan meal combines tender ground beef with orzo pasta in a rich tomato cream sauce, enhanced by the freshness of basil. It’s not only easy to prepare but also comforting and versatile, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1½ cups orzo pasta
- 2½ cups beef broth
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion; cook until browned (6-8 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
- Stir in orzo pasta, cover, and cook on medium-low for about 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Add heavy cream; simmer for 2-3 minutes until creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg