The Art of Comforting Ground Beef Orzo

Perfect Beef Browning

Master the technique of browning ground beef effectively to develop deep flavors and ideal texture for supporting pasta integration.

Vegetable Foundation Excellence

Achieve perfectly sautéed aromatics with optimal texture for creating flavorful base that enhances beef throughout without overpowering.

Orzo Cooking Mastery

Learn the art of cooking orzo directly in sauce for maximum flavor absorption while maintaining perfect texture throughout.

Sauce Integration Perfection

Master the technique of achieving ideal sauce consistency and flavor balance for authentic comfort food presentation.

Finishing and Serving Excellence

Learn proper finishing techniques that showcase ultimate ground beef orzo at its most appetizing and comforting presentation.

Expert Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Orzo

Beef Selection: Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal flavor and moisture - leaner beef can result in dry texture.

Pasta Cooking: Don't overcook orzo as it continues cooking in the sauce - aim for al dente texture.

Liquid Management: Keep extra broth handy to add if mixture becomes too thick during cooking process.

Cheese Timing: Add cheese off heat to prevent separation and ensure smooth, creamy integration.

Resting Period: Let dish rest briefly before serving to allow sauce to thicken and flavors to develop.

Storage Tip: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days - add splash of broth when reheating if needed.

Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights: Ultimate Comfort Food Perfection

Name: Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights: Ultimate Comfort Food Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean American
Ingredients: For Protein Base:; 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend); 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; For Pasta Foundation:; 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 3 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; For Flavor Building:; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste; For Richness:; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; For Fresh Elements:; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional); 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; For Cheese Topping:; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup additional Parmesan cheese; For Serving Enhancement:; Crusty bread slices

The most comforting and satisfying Ground Beef Orzo you'll ever make - incredibly hearty and flavorful with tender ground beef, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, rich tomato sauce, savory herbs and spices, melted cheese topping, aromatic garlic and onions, wholesome vegetables, perfectly balanced seasoning profiles that brings together the best of beloved comfort food traditions, creating the ultimate cozy dinner that's so delicious it'll have everyone asking for seconds with every perfectly satisfying bite that tastes like pure comfort at home with premium quality flavor and must-try weeknight perfection.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

25 Minutes

Total Time

40 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For Protein Base:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, chopped

2 carrots, diced

For Pasta Foundation:

1 1/2 cups orzo pasta

3 cups beef broth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

For Flavor Building:

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon thyme

Salt and black pepper to taste

For Richness:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Fresh Elements:

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional)

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

For Cheese Topping:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup additional Parmesan cheese

For Serving Enhancement:

Crusty bread slices

Side salad greens

Extra herbs for garnish

For Quick Variations:

Italian sausage (instead of beef)

Spinach leaves (green addition)

Mushrooms (earthy flavor)

Red wine (cooking liquid)

For Make-Ahead Options:

Storage containers

Aluminum foil for reheating

Individual portion containers

Instructions

Heat olive oil in large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent throughout.

Add minced garlic and cook for additional 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic.

Add ground beef, breaking it up with spoon, and cook until browned completely, about 5-6 minutes.

Stir in bell pepper and carrots, cooking for 3-4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.

Add tomato paste, oregano, basil, paprika, and thyme, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and beef broth, bringing mixture to a gentle boil.

Add orzo pasta, stirring well to combine all ingredients evenly throughout mixture.

Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until orzo is tender.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add more broth if needed for proper consistency.

Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed for perfect balance.

Top with mozzarella cheese, cover briefly to melt, then garnish with fresh parsley.

Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld perfectly together.

Serve hot with crusty bread and fresh herbs for complete comfort food experience.

Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights: Ultimate Comfort Food Perfection

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Comforting Ground Beef Orzo

Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe for Cozy Nights: Ultimate Comfort Food Perfection

Ingredients

Instructions