This creamy tomato beef orzo is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender beef and small pasta, it’s comforting and easy to make. Plus, the tomatoes and cream combine for a tasty sauce!
Honestly, who can resist a meal that’s creamy and hearty? I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—perfect for a cozy dinner! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein for the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean turkey or chicken can be used instead. For a vegetarian alternative, try using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives the dish a nice texture, but if you can’t find it, any small pasta like rice, couscous, or even small shells will work well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are super convenient. If you have fresh tomatoes, chop them up and use those instead—just add a bit more seasoning to balance the flavor. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a great smoky touch!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt. If you’re vegan, coconut cream or a non-dairy cream can nicely replace it while keeping the dish rich.
How Do I Get the Beef to Brown Perfectly?
Getting the beef nicely browned is key to flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a wide skillet to create more surface area for the beef to brown.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps the beef sear instead of steam. Work in batches if needed.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef. This sears the meat and locks in juices!
- Let it sit for a minute before stirring to allow browning to happen well.
With these tips and ideas in mind, you’re set for a delicious creamy tomato beef orzo! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Tomato Beef Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy tomato beef orzo recipe will take about 30 minutes total. It includes around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season it with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil for extra flavor!
3. Add Tomato Paste:
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 1 minute. This helps to deepen the flavor of your beef mixture.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now, add the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!), beef broth, and orzo pasta to the skillet. Give it a good stir to combine everything together.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll want to check occasionally to make sure the orzo is tender and that most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Make it Creamy:
Once the orzo is nice and tender, stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to become creamy and heated through. Taste and adjust any seasoning if necessary!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your creamy tomato beef orzo hot! Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy this cozy and delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is a perfect choice for this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta like couscous, small shells, or even ditalini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked through!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and cook it without adding the cream. Just refrigerate and then reheat on the stove when you’re ready to serve. Stir in the cream just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a plant-based cream can work nicely without compromising too much on richness!