Description
Hearty ground beef orzo dances with rich tomato cream sauce, creating a Mediterranean-inspired comfort meal that whispers culinary magic. Delightful flavors meld together, promising a satisfying dish you’ll savor with every delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) lean ground beef
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 1 cup (200 grams) uncooked orzo pasta
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (60 grams) fresh baby spinach
Seasonings and Sauce:
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (14 ounces/397 grams) can tomato sauce
- 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) beef broth
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté ground beef and onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat until meat browns and onions become translucent, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Incorporate minced garlic and cook until aromatic, releasing its rich flavor profile.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the meat mixture.
- Pour uncooked orzo, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet, allowing ingredients to meld together.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo reaches near-tender consistency.
- Gently fold in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creating a luxurious and creamy sauce that gradually thickens.
- Add baby spinach leaves, stirring until they wilt and integrate seamlessly into the dish.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
- Transfer to serving plates, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Enhance the protein content by using lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier twist.
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk to create a lighter, dietary-friendly version.
- Boost vegetable intake by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers during the cooking process.
- Control spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or using mild alternatives for sensitive palates.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 490 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg