Creamy Ground Beef Orzo: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal

Experience the comforting flavors of Ground Beef Orzo with creamy tomato sauce, a quick and delightful weeknight meal.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: PASTA

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Sauce

1 14-ounce can tomato sauce Consider using passata for a smoother texture.
3/4 cup beef broth Vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
1 cup heavy cream Use half-and-half for a lighter alternative.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Soy sauce can substitute if needed.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Optional; omit for mildness.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning Substitute with individual herbs like basil or oregano if desired.

For the Orzo & Protein

1 pound lean ground beef Swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal.
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta Feel free to substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini.

For the Vegetables

1/2 medium onion, chopped Yellow onion is preferred.
3-4 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can work in a pinch.
2 cups fresh baby spinach Can be swapped with kale or omitted entirely.

For Finishing Touches

1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Salt & pepper To taste.

Equipment

Large pot

Method

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo

In a large pot, heat over medium-high heat about 5-6 minutes. Cook the ground beef until it’s well browned, breaking it apart for even cooking.
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic along with optional crushed red pepper flakes and the uncooked orzo. Cook for about 1 minute.
Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Remove from heat, stir in parmesan cheese and packed spinach, and cover for 3-5 minutes to let everything meld together.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan for a delightful finishing touch. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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