Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil
If you’re in search of a hearty yet simple meal that the whole family will adore, look no further than this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil. This one-pan dish effortlessly combines tender ground beef with creamy tomato sauce, enveloping orzo pasta for a comforting experience. With a delightful blend of flavors and textures, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying without the fuss. Plus, the addition of fresh basil elevates the meal, adding a pop of color and fragrance that your loved ones will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion for about 6–8 minutes until cooked through.
- Stir in minced garlic and season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; cook for another minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
- Incorporate orzo pasta, cover, and cook on medium-low heat for 10–12 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Mix in heavy cream and let simmer for a few more minutes until creamy.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg