Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

If you adore hearty, comforting pasta dishes that don’t require hours in the kitchen, Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce will absolutely win you over. Imagine luscious tomato cream enveloping tiny grains of orzo, all mingling with perfectly seasoned ground beef and melted Parmesan—this is a recipe where simple ingredients transform into a weeknight meal that looks and tastes straight out of your favorite Italian-American bistro. Each bite brings creamy, savory, and tangy flavors together for a one-pan dinner that boasts both family-friendly ease and showstopping flavor.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce couldn’t be much easier, yet each item plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, richness, and irresistible texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why every piece matters:

• Ground beef (1 pound): The juicy, hearty foundation offers protein and depth of flavor—it’s essential for that classic comfort-food vibe.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Brings just the right amount of richness and helps develop the aromatics.
• Onion, diced (1 small): Sweetens as it cooks, adding background flavor and a soft texture.
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A savory must—don’t skip it for that classic Italian warmth.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Pops in those iconic herbaceous notes, creating a familiar flavor base.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for coaxing all the flavors to the forefront.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds depth and just a hint of heat.
• Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a little kick—adjust to your family’s spice preferences.
• Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the tomato flavor, making the sauce taste lovingly simmered.
• Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz): Forms the saucy, tangy heart of the whole dish.
• Beef broth (2 cups): Infuses meatiness and keeps everything moist as orzo cooks perfectly al dente right in the sauce.
• Dry orzo pasta (1 cup): These tiny, rice-shaped pasta morsels soak up flavor and create the creamy texture that makes this dish sing.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): For that luxurious, velvety finish everyone loves in a cream sauce.
• Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Melts into the sauce, adding umami, saltiness, and a classic Italian touch.
• Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish): Fresh, vibrant, and aromatic, these herbs make the plate pop.

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or saucepan. Add your diced onion and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until it turns translucent and releases that sweet aroma. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for just 30 seconds—this brings out its fragrance and sets the flavor foundation for your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Now, it’s time to add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and let it brown evenly, stirring occasionally. Aim for those little crispy browned bits—these mean extra flavor! Once fully cooked, you can drain any excess fat if needed, but a little bit preserved in the pan adds great richness to the sauce.

Step 3: Season and Add Tomato Paste

Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and stir in the tomato paste. Let this cook for a minute or so. This is where that magical, savory base develops: the tomato paste caramelizes slightly while the spices infuse every bite of beef.

Step 4: Create the Saucy Base

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, and stir to combine with the seasoned beef mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This creates the fantastic liquid that will both flavor the orzo and become the signature sauce of your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

Add the dry orzo right into the pan—no separate pot required! Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo absorbs the rich, tomatoey broth as it cooks, thickening the sauce until it’s beautifully lush and the orzo is tender.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, letting everything simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch as your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce turns ultra-creamy and silky, with the orzo plumping up and the cheese melting right in. Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if you like.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and pile your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce into bowls. Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top for a fresh, colorful touch, and serve hot and steamy to thrilled, hungry eaters.

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs does wonders—opt for chopped parsley for brightness or fresh basil for a slightly sweet, peppery finish. A dusting of extra Parmesan is always welcome, and a few twists of black pepper on top give a little extra pop.

Side Dishes

This dish is satisfying on its own, but it always shines a bit brighter with something on the side. A simple green salad with lemony vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while a few slices of warm, crusty bread are perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy tomato sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce in deep pasta bowls for a cozy family meal, or spoon it into ramekins and bake with extra cheese for a bubbly, golden “pasta bake” twist. For gatherings, try serving in small cups as part of a pasta flight—unexpected and fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, and it tastes just as amazing (if not better) when reheated!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish—let it cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers. It’ll store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply scoop portions into a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of broth or cream as needed to loosen up the sauce, then warm gently until steaming. Give it a quick stir and you’re good to go!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken are great swaps if you want a lighter version. Just keep an eye on the cooking time—they tend to brown a bit faster.

What’s the difference between orzo and rice?

Orzo is actually a tiny, rice-shaped pasta. It cooks up creamy and tender, absorbing all the sauce—totally different from rice, which holds its shape and doesn’t turn nearly as velvety.

Can I make this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce gluten free?

If you can find gluten-free orzo (many specialty stores carry it), it works well! Alternatively, swap in your favorite small gluten-free pasta shape and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I add more veggies to this recipe?

This dish is so versatile! Stir in a couple of handfuls of baby spinach or some chopped zucchini with the orzo, letting them cook right along with the pasta for extra color and nutrition.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s got just a hint of warmth thanks to the optional red pepper flakes, but nothing overpowering. Adjust the amount to be just right for your crew—or leave it out for a purely kid-friendly meal.

Final Thoughts

If your weeknight dinner routine needs a shakeup, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the perfect addition. It’s fast, unfussy, and yet has the kind of big, bold flavor that brings smiles all around the table. Try it once, and you’ll be coming back to this comforting classic again and again!

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