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Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Orzo

A rich and comforting one-pot meal featuring tender orzo, savory ground beef, and fresh spinach in a creamy tomato parmesan sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian-American
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef 90% lean preferred
  • 1 small yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo pasta uncooked
  • 2.5 cups beef broth low sodium
  • 15 oz tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach packed
  • 0.5 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Chef Knife

Method
 

  1. Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste and dry orzo. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the orzo slightly.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until orzo is al dente.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach is wilted and sauce is creamy.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Leftovers will thicken significantly; add a splash of water or broth when reheating.