GROUND BEEF ORZO WITH TOMATO CREAM SAUCE

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the ultimate one-pan dinner—hearty, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. Tender orzo pasta is cooked right in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with perfectly seasoned ground beef, creating a satisfying dish the whole family will love. Minimal cleanup, maximum comfort—this is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

🛒 Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (lean or extra lean)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup orzo pasta
1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

🔄 Substitutions

Ground beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat
Orzo: Substitute with small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even rice
Cream: Use Greek yogurt, coconut milk, or light cream for a lighter version
Parmesan: Swap with pecorino romano or a dairy-free cheese alternative
Crushed tomatoes: Use tomato puree or marinara sauce if needed

👨‍🍳 How to Make

In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed
Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper
Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, orzo, and broth. Stir to combine
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and sauce is thickened
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until creamy and smooth
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving

🧄 Mix-ins

Fresh spinach or kale for added greens
Mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies
A handful of mozzarella cheese for more cheesiness
Sun-dried tomatoes for a bold, tangy punch
Olives or capers for a Mediterranean twist

✅ Recipe Tips

Stir orzo occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking
Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture
Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze for extra richness

📦 Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze cooled leftovers for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before reheating
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess

🌀 Recipe Variations

Spicy version: Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce
Baked orzo: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for 5 minutes until bubbly
One-pot casserole: Mix in cooked veggies, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for a heartier meal
Low-carb: Swap orzo for cauliflower rice and reduce liquid slightly

❓ FAQs

Can I cook the orzo separately?
You can, but cooking it in the sauce adds flavor and keeps it a true one-pan dish

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! It’s creamy, cheesy, and not too spicy—just skip the chili flakes for little ones

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Make the full dish, then reheat with a splash of broth or cream before serving

What’s the best side dish?
Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal

Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a weeknight winner. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and delivers serious satisfaction in every bite. Let me know if you’d like a printable version or Pinterest-ready graphic! 🍅🧀🥄