This creamy tomato beef orzo dinner is a hearty and comforting dish that’s easy to whip up! With tender beef, flavorful tomatoes, and soft orzo pasta, it’s sure to please everyone.
I love how quickly this meal comes together. It’s perfect for busy nights, and who doesn’t enjoy a one-pot dinner? Plus, the creamy sauce makes it feel like a warm hug! 🍝❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for less grease. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is great for this dish because it cooks quickly. If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with small pasta like ditalini or even rice, but remember to adjust the cooking time!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring juicy flavor. For a fresher taste, you can use fresh chopped tomatoes, just be sure to add a little extra salt.
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may not be as rich. For dairy-free, consider coconut cream or cashew cream!
Cheese: I like using mozzarella for its meltiness, but Parmesan or cheddar can also work. You could even use a dairy-free cheese alternative!
How Do I Make Sure My Orzo Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo the right way ensures it’s tender without being mushy! Keep these tips in mind:
- Monitor the water: Make sure there’s enough liquid when you simmer the orzo; it will absorb quite a bit during cooking.
- Stir occasionally: This helps prevent the orzo from sticking together or to the pan.
- Taste for doneness: A minute or two before the cooking time ends, taste for your preferred texture—al dente is best!
Following these steps will help you create a perfectly creamy and delicious orzo dish every time!
Creamy Tomato Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Tomato Beef Orzo Dinner will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking, making it a perfect quick dinner option for those busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Stir them into the beef and cook until the onion has softened, about 3-4 minutes. This will add a lovely flavor to your dish!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the orzo, which helps bring out its nutty flavor.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally.
5. Simmer Until Tender:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t stick to the bottom!
6. Creamy Finish:
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. This step will make your dish luxuriously rich and flavorful!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Make it just how you like it!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy your comforting creamy tomato beef orzo dinner with family and friends!
FAQ for Creamy Tomato Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, similar to how you would with ground beef, for a delicious and lighter meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you can omit the cream or use a non-dairy version for a creamy texture.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This creamy tomato beef orzo dinner is delicious on its own, but for added flair, serve it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up the sauce! A sprinkle of extra cheese on top wouldn’t hurt either!
