Easy Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty meal that brings together rich flavors with easy preparation, this Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce recipe will quickly become your go-to dinner. It’s a delightful blend of tender beef, tender orzo pasta, and a vibrant tomato herb sauce that creates a lush, satisfying dish perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. With wholesome ingredients and simple steps, this recipe combines savory, fresh, and warm elements in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.
• Hearty and Filling: Combines protein, pasta, and veggies for a balanced, satisfying meal.
• Rich Tomato Herb Sauce: Fresh herbs and tomatoes pack the dish with vibrant, comforting taste.
• Versatile: Easy to tweak with your favorite spices, veggies, or protein swaps.
• Minimal Cleanup: One-pot cooking makes for less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce lies in its straightforward ingredients, each adding a unique texture, taste, or color that complements the dish perfectly. Fresh herbs brighten the sauce, while ground beef gives it that hearty, satisfying feel you crave.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean for a healthier option without losing flavor.
• Orzo Pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Provides the base for a rich and tangy sauce.
• Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that build depth and warmth.
• Fresh Herbs (Basil, Oregano, Parsley): Add bright, fresh notes to balance the richness.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the beef flavor and helps cook the orzo to a perfect consistency.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and enhancing the sauce’s mouthfeel.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together.

Variations for Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so you can easily customize it to suit your taste buds, dietary preferences, or what’s in your pantry. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a creamy finish.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for different flavors or dietary needs.
• Herb Alternatives: Try rosemary, thyme, or cilantro to change the flavor profile.

How to Make Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed to keep the dish light.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan with the beef. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes along with chopped fresh basil, oregano, and parsley. Stir well to combine all ingredients and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Pour beef broth into the skillet and bring to a boil. Add dry orzo pasta, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, around 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, sprinkle some fresh parsley or grated cheese before serving for an added layer of flavor and presentation.

Pro Tips for Making Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce

• Use Fresh Herbs: They brighten the sauce way more than dried versions, making the dish vibrant and fresh.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the pasta to avoid mushiness; it should be tender but still have a slight bite.
• Brown Beef Well: Proper browning builds depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Simmer Gently: Low heat lets the sauce develop richness without burning or drying out.
• Adjust Broth Amount: Depending on the orzo brand, you might need a splash more liquid to achieve perfect doneness.

How to Serve Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh parsley, basil leaves, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese add a lovely pop of color and flavor on top, enhancing each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete and well-rounded meal that complements the beef and tomato flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in warm bowls with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt to add richness and a refreshing touch. Present it alongside lemon wedges for an optional citrusy brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the pasta has thickened too much to restore its perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or even broken macaroni can work well, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s a great meal prep option since it stores and reheats well, keeping its flavor and texture even after a couple of days.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can skip the beef and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils to maintain texture and protein, making it vegetarian-friendly.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onion or include a dash of your favorite hot sauce to suit your heat preference.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the pasta?

Reheat slowly on the stovetop with a splash of broth and covered, or microwave in short bursts with a little extra liquid to keep moisture locked in.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Orzo with Tomato Herb Sauce is truly a comforting, flavorful dish that makes weeknight dinners exciting and satisfying without extra fuss. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s a meal you’ll want to come back to again and again. Give it a try, and watch how it becomes a beloved staple in your home cooking routine!

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