Why make this recipe
Creamy Beef and Orzo Pasta is a comforting dish that combines the richness of beef with the creaminess of a savory sauce. It’s a simple one-pot meal that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The addition of fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, while the Parmesan cheese brings everything together, creating a dish everyone will love.
How to make Creamy Beef and Orzo Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3-4 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- Salt
- 3/4 cup beef stock
- 14 oz tomato sauce
- 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Directions:
- Start by adding the ground beef to a soup pot or Dutch oven. Break it up a little with your spoon, then let it cook without stirring over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot. Stir and break the beef into smaller pieces. Cook for another 5 minutes and spoon out excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and orzo pasta. Cook for about a minute.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 10 minutes uncovered, stirring often.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Cover and let sit for 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
- Serve immediately while hot.
How to serve Creamy Beef and Orzo Pasta
Serve Creamy Beef and Orzo Pasta warm in bowls. You can garnish it with extra grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. This dish goes well with a simple salad or garlic bread on the side.
How to store Creamy Beef and Orzo Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to make Creamy Beef and Orzo Pasta
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
- If you want more flavor, try adding extra herbs like basil or oregano.
- Make sure to stir the pot regularly while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
variation
For a vegetarian version, simply swap out the ground beef for mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes, you can use any small pasta shape, such as ditalini or small shells, but cooking times may vary.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: You can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce while cooking to increase the heat.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze Creamy Beef and Orzo Pasta. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container and consume it within 2-3 months for the best quality. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Creamy Beef and Orzo Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Add ground beef to a soup pot or Dutch oven. Break it up a little with a spoon, then cook without stirring over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot. Stir and break the beef into smaller pieces. Cook for another 5 minutes and spoon out excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and orzo pasta. Cook for about a minute.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 10 minutes uncovered, stirring often.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Cover and let sit for 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
