Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce is one of those meals that brings everyone to the table fast. It is creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, yet simple enough for a weeknight. I first made it on a cold New York evening when I needed dinner on the table in 30 minutes flat. The orzo soaked up that rich tomato cream sauce like magic, and my kids could not stop asking for seconds. This recipe is not fancy; it is just real food that feels good to eat. If you love one pot dinners that taste like comfort, this dish will hit every note.
For nights when you crave something just as cozy, try my Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. It has the same kind of warmth and ease that makes dinner feel like home again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
This Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: fast, flavorful, and foolproof. It is a family favorite because it delivers comfort without the fuss.
Here is why it stands out:
- Quick to make: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
- One-pot simplicity: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
- Rich and creamy: The tomato sauce blends perfectly with cream for a smooth, balanced flavor.
- Kid-approved: Mild seasoning and tender orzo make it a hit for all ages.
- Versatile: Add spinach, mushrooms, or extra herbs without changing the core flavor.
- Budget-friendly: All ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have.
Each spoonful feels hearty and comforting, yet light enough to enjoy any night of the week. Serve it with garlic bread or a crisp salad, and dinner is done.
Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce
Equipment
- Dutch oven or deep skillet
- wooden spoon or spatula
- measuring cups and spoons
- grater for Parmesan
- knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% or higher)
- 0.5 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
- 0.75 cup low sodium beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
- Add onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Spoon out excess fat if needed. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning; cook 1 minute.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute to coat with flavor.
- Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered 10 minutes, stirring often.
- Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan and spinach, cover 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Keep the heat gentle when simmering the sauce. A slow simmer helps the orzo absorb liquid evenly and keeps the cream smooth.
- Stir frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If the sauce thickens too much before the orzo is tender, add a few tablespoons of broth or cream and stir.
- For a richer flavor, brown the beef well before adding onion and garlic that caramelized layer adds depth.
- Parmesan naturally thickens the sauce, so taste before adding salt.
- To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.
- For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.
NUTRITION (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 575 kcal | — |
| Protein | 33 g | 66% |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g | 12% |
| Fat | 31 g | 48% |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g | 80% |
| Unsaturated Fat | 12 g | — |
| Trans Fat | 0 g | — |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg | 37% |
| Sodium | 710 mg | 30% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 7% |
| Sugar | 6 g | 6% |
| Calcium | 220 mg | 17% |
| Iron | 4 mg | 22% |
Ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce
Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce proves that you can make something incredible with everyday ingredients. Everything cooks in one pot, and every bite delivers that creamy, savory comfort that keeps families coming back for seconds.
You’ll need:
- Ground beef (1 lb): Lean, about 90% or higher, for rich flavor without excess grease.
- Onion (½ medium): Adds sweetness and depth to the base.
- Garlic (3–4 cloves): Freshly minced for the best flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (½ tsp): Optional, adds gentle warmth without heat.
- Italian seasoning (½ tsp): A balanced blend of herbs that ties everything together.
- Orzo pasta (1 cup): The small pasta that cooks right in the sauce for perfect texture.
- Tomato sauce (14 oz can): The foundation of that rich red flavor.
- Beef broth (¾ cup): Deepens the sauce and keeps it silky.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): For the smooth, creamy finish.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Adds savory umami depth.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts in to thicken and enrich the sauce.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups): Adds color and freshness.
- Parsley (1 tbsp): For a touch of brightness when serving.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo Step-by-Step
Cooking this meal is fast and simple. Follow these easy steps to get the best results every time.
Brown the beef: Heat your pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and let it brown for 5–6 minutes before stirring.
Add flavor: Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft. Mix in garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning; cook 1 minute.
Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo so it absorbs the flavor.
Build the sauce: Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, cream, and Worcestershire. Bring to a gentle simmer, not a boil.
Cook and thicken: Stir occasionally for 10 minutes until orzo is tender and the sauce thickens.
Finish with cheese and greens: Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan and spinach, cover for 3–5 minutes, and season to taste.
This one-pot recipe saves time and keeps cleanup minimal. For another creamy weeknight option, try my Ground Beef Pasta Bake with Mozzarella. It has that same rich texture and comforting flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce
Making Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce is easy, but a few small tricks can take it from good to unforgettable. These simple adjustments help you master texture, balance flavors, and get that perfect creamy consistency every single time.
Follow these tips for success:
- Brown the beef well: Let it cook undisturbed at first. Browning creates rich flavor and depth.
- Simmer gently: Keep the sauce at a light bubble. Boiling too fast can reduce the liquid before the orzo cooks through.
- Stir often: Orzo loves to stick to the bottom of the pot. Give it a gentle stir every few minutes to keep it smooth.
- Taste before serving: Parmesan adds saltiness, so adjust seasoning at the end for perfect balance.
- Let it rest: After stirring in the cheese and spinach, cover the pot for five minutes. This step thickens the sauce naturally.
- Grate fresh cheese: Pre-shredded cheese does not melt as smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan keeps the sauce silky.
Simple Variations to Try with Ground Beef and Orzo
This recipe is flexible, and small changes can make it fit your mood or pantry perfectly.
Try these delicious twists:
- Add vegetables: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra texture.
- Lighten it up: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of cream.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Try another green: Kale or arugula both work well in place of spinach.
- Use a different pasta: Small shapes like ditalini or small shells cook in the same sauce beautifully.
- Make it extra cheesy: Stir in mozzarella for a stretchy, creamy finish.
When you want something just as cozy, my Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is another one-pot dinner that hits all the comfort notes.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce
Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance its creamy flavor. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining friends, these easy ideas turn this meal into a complete dinner.
Serve it with:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up that rich, velvety sauce.
- A fresh green salad: Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a refreshing bite.
- Steamed or roasted veggies: Broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus add lightness and texture.
- Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle before serving adds that finishing touch.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil makes the dish feel bright and balanced.
For another comforting option with the same creamy satisfaction, try my Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta. It delivers that same cozy, crowd-pleasing flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips to Keep It Creamy
Leftovers of Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce reheat beautifully if you store and warm them the right way. Because orzo continues to absorb liquid as it sits, a few small adjustments will keep every serving creamy and flavorful even after a day or two.
Here is how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigerate: Transfer the orzo to an airtight container once it cools to room temperature. Avoid sealing it while it is still hot, since trapped steam can water down the sauce. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. The orzo will thicken slightly as it chills, which is completely normal.
- Reheat on the stove: Place the leftovers in a skillet or saucepan and add two to three tablespoons of broth, milk, or cream per portion. Warm it slowly over low to medium heat, stirring every minute or so until heated through. This helps the sauce loosen up and regain its creamy texture without separating.
- Reheat in the microwave: If you prefer the microwave, transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of liquid, cover lightly with a lid or damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and warm.
- Refresh before serving: Stir in a little grated Parmesan or a drizzle of cream right before serving to bring back that silky finish.
- Avoid freezing: Orzo becomes overly soft and loses its structure when frozen and thawed. The creamy sauce can also separate after defrosting. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy this dish freshly made or within a few days.
These small steps make a big difference in keeping your Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce tasting just as rich and satisfying as the day you cooked it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce
1. What can I substitute for heavy cream in tomato cream sauce?
Half-and-half is the best alternative for a lighter sauce that still tastes creamy. You can also use evaporated milk for a smooth, stable texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try unsweetened coconut milk, but adjust seasoning to keep the flavor balanced.
2. Can I use rice or another pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, small pasta shapes such as ditalini, elbows, or small shells work well. If using rice, add a little more broth and extend the cooking time by about ten minutes to reach the same tender texture.
3. How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use lean ground beef, replace half of the cream with broth or milk, and add extra spinach or diced vegetables. Whole wheat orzo also adds more fiber without changing the flavor too much.
4. How should I reheat leftover orzo without drying it out?
Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating. Warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often until smooth. Finish with a bit of Parmesan or olive oil to bring back the creamy texture.
Ground Beef Orzo in Tomato Cream Sauce is more than just a quick dinner. It is a recipe that feels like comfort in a bowl warm, creamy, and full of flavor. It is perfect for weeknights when you want something easy yet satisfying. The best part is that it brings everyone to the table without stress or fuss.
Cooking should feel joyful and simple, and this dish is proof that you do not need complicated ingredients to make a meal worth remembering. Serve it once, and it will become one of your go-to dinners.