# Easy Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream 🍅✨
Looking for a quick, comforting meal that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort? This Easy Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream is your perfect solution. It’s hearty, rich, and packed with flavor — ideal for busy weeknights!
## Why You’ll Love It
– Quick and easy to make 🕒
– One-pot magic (less cleanup!) 🧼
– Creamy, savory, and absolutely delicious 🤤
Let’s dive into the recipe!
## Key Ingredients 🛒
– **Ground beef**: Adds protein and richness.
– **Orzo pasta**: A tiny pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
– **Tomato sauce**: Forms the base of the luscious sauce.
– **Heavy cream**: Adds a creamy, silky texture.
– **Garlic and onion**: Flavor builders.
– **Parmesan cheese**: For that final cheesy touch.
## Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil, for garnish
## Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
2. Add ground beef. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in orzo and toast for 2 minutes.
4. Pour in beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir well.
5. Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the orzo is tender, reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil and more Parmesan if desired. Serve hot!
## Tips for Success 🌟
– **Use full-fat cream** for the creamiest texture.
– **Toast the orzo** slightly before adding liquids — it adds a lovely nutty flavor.
– **Don’t overcook the orzo**; it should be al dente.
## Storage and Reheating
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
## Variations to Try 🎨
– Add spinach or peas for a veggie boost.
– Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
– Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes!
## FAQs ❓
**Can I make this ahead of time?**
Yes! It reheats beautifully.
**Can I freeze it?**
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it. Just be aware the cream may separate a little when thawed.
Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish any night of the week! 🍽️
