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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Comforting Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Delight

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used as a substitute.
  • 3-4 cloves Garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional; omit for a milder dish.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Dried oregano or basil can also be used.
  • 1 cup Uncooked Orzo Pasta Can substitute with ditalini or any small pasta.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Tomato Sauce 14 oz; crushed tomatoes or passata can be alternatives.
  • 0.75 cup Beef Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Half-and-half is a lighter alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce or tamari can replace for a gluten-free option.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Nutritional yeast can be a substitute for a dairy-free dish.
For the Greens
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Can substitute with kale or Swiss chard.
For Seasoning
  • Salt Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to taste.
  • Pepper Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Brown the Beef: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, add the lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until browned and crumbled, then drain any excess fat.
  2. Sauté Onions: Stir in the chopped onion and cook for an additional 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Introduce the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Incorporate Orzo and Liquids: Add the uncooked orzo pasta, tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle bubble and cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
  5. Add Spinach and Cheese: Remove from heat, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese and spinach until melted and wilted.
  6. Final Seasoning and Rest: Let sit covered for 3-5 minutes and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream for extra creaminess.

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