Ingredients
– 1 pound (about 450 grams) lean ground beef (90% lean preferred) for a protein-packed base
– 1/2 medium onion, chopped to add a sweet, aromatic layer
– 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced for that essential punch of flavor
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) to bring a bit of heat if you like
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning to infuse herbaceous notes
– 1 cup (about 170 grams) uncooked orzo pasta as the quick-cooking base
– 1 can (14 ounces or 400 grams) tomato sauce or passata for a rich, tangy sauce
– 3/4 cup (180 ml) beef broth to keep everything moist and flavorful
– 1 cup (240 ml) heavy or whipping cream adding creaminess that makes it irresistible
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for a subtle depth of umami
– 1/2 cup (about 50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese recommended for the best melt and taste
– 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach to sneak in some greens and nutrients
– Salt and pepper to taste to season and perfect the flavors
Instructions
1-Getting started: Getting started with this ground beef orzo dinner recipe is straightforward and fun, especially if youβre a home cook looking for quick wins. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them ahead this keeps things smooth and enjoyable. The total time is just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty without the hassle.
2-To kick it off: brown the ground beef in a pot over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes without stirring, letting it develop that nice sear. Then, add the chopped onion and cook for another 5 minutes, breaking up the meat as it goes. Next, stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and uncooked orzo pasta; let this cook for about 1 minute to build flavor.
3-Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce, then simmer gently uncovered for around 10 minutes, stirring often to avoid sticking. Once done, remove from heat, mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh baby spinach, cover, and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until it thickens nicely. Finally, season with salt and pepper, and serve it up hot for a comforting meal. For a tasty variation, check out easy dessert recipes to pair with your dinner.
Last Step:
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π
Monitor liquid levels while cooking to ensure orzo cooks properly without drying out.
β² Allow the dish to rest covered after cooking so the orzo absorbs more sauce.
π§ Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: SautΓ©ing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 595 kcal
- Fat: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Protein: 38 g
