This Creamy Tomato Beef Orzo is a cozy dish that’s perfect for dinner. It combines tender beef, creamy sauce, and tiny orzo pasta all cooked in one pot. Less mess, more yum!
You’ll love how it comes together quickly and tastes so good. I often make this on busy nights; it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Who doesn’t want that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken also works well. For a vegetarian take, swap beef for lentils or mushrooms!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a tiny pasta that soaks up flavors beautifully. If you can’t find it, try small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Diced Tomatoes: Use any canned diced tomatoes you have on hand. Fire-roasted ones add a nice smoky touch. If you prefer fresh, 2-3 medium chopped tomatoes work too!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creaminess. If you need a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk. Both will add a nice flavor without the heaviness!
How Can I Cook the Orzo Perfectly Without It Getting Mushy?
Cooking orzo can be tricky, especially in a one-pot recipe. To get it just right, follow these tips:
- Keep the heat at a simmer, not a rolling boil. This helps it cook evenly without becoming mushy.
- Stir it occasionally! This prevents sticking and allows the pasta to absorb the liquid nicely.
- Check for doneness a minute or two earlier than the package suggests, as it will continue to cook a little after removing it from heat.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Beef Orzo One-Pot
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 / 400g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Tomato Beef Orzo takes about 20 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick dish that cooks all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef until it’s no longer pink. If there’s any excess fat, drain it out to keep your dish from being greasy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step makes your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Add the Seasonings:
Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Cook for about a minute to release the flavors of the herbs.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the beef broth. Add the orzo pasta and give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil. It’s okay; it will look a bit saucy at this stage!
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom. This is where the magic happens—the orzo will soak up all those wonderful flavors!
6. Stir in the Cream and Cheese:
When the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is creamy and heated through. This is what gives the dish that cozy, creamy texture!
7. Final Seasoning:
Before serving, season your creamy orzo with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning based on your preference!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy tomato beef orzo hot, garnished with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a lovely touch. Enjoy this comforting dish with your family or friends!
FAQ for Creamy Tomato Beef Orzo One-Pot Recipe
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and your dish will still be delicious and flavorful!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The rest of the ingredients can stay the same!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to customize by adding in some chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini while sautéing the onions and garlic. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also enhance the flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for added vegetables!
