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Ground Beef Orzo

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo: A Cozy One-Pot Dinner Delight

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo combines rich flavors with tender pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Onion Sweet onion can be used for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be used.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Omit if sensitive to spice.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can be used for an intense flavor boost.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be substituted.
  • 14 oz Tomato Sauce Canned or fresh can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can serve as a substitute.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Uncooked Orzo Pasta Substitute with any small pasta shape if necessary.
For Topping & Freshness
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Kale or arugula can be used instead.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Beef Orzo
  1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the lean ground beef. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes until browned, then gently break it apart with a wooden spoon.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot, stirring to combine with the beef. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the onion to soften and become translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Mix in the uncooked orzo pasta, followed by the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir thoroughly until well combined.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  6. Once the orzo is cooked to your liking, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach, mixing until the spinach wilts down.
  7. Before serving, taste the dish and adjust with salt and pepper as desired. Give it one last stir to combine all the flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Leftover Ground Beef Orzo is a fantastic lunch option; it reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stove.

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