Name: Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the ground beef orzo:; 1 lb ground beef; 1 ½ cups orzo pasta; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 ½ cups diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; Fresh parsley for garnish; For the tomato cream sauce:; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

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I love how this ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce turns simple pantry ingredients into a warm, comforting meal. I make this dish when I want something creamy, filling, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The tender orzo, savory ground beef, and smooth tomato cream sauce come together in a way that feels cozy and familiar, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it feels hearty and comforting while still being easy to prepare. I like that it comes together mostly in one pan, which keeps cleanup simple and stress-free. The tomato cream sauce is rich and balanced, and I find that it coats the orzo perfectly. I also appreciate how flexible this dish is, since I can easily adjust the seasoning, add vegetables, or swap ingredients based on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the ground beef orzo
1 lb ground beef
1 ½ cups orzo pasta
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
1 ½ cups diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the tomato cream sauce
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

I start by cooking the orzo in a pot of salted boiling water until it is just tender. Once drained, I set it aside so it is ready to mix in later.

In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil and cook the chopped onion until it softens. I add the garlic and let it cook briefly until fragrant. I then add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Once fully cooked, I season it with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

I stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, letting everything cook together for a couple of minutes. I pour in the beef broth and allow the mixture to simmer so the flavors can blend.

In a small saucepan, I melt the butter and add the cream. I let it gently simmer, then stir in the Parmesan until the sauce becomes smooth. If needed, I add a little sugar to balance the acidity and season with salt and pepper.

I combine the cooked orzo with the beef mixture, then pour in the tomato cream sauce. I gently stir everything together and let it simmer briefly so the orzo absorbs the sauce. I finish by tasting and adjusting the seasoning, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings And Timing

I usually make this recipe for about 4 to 6 servings. The total time is around 45 minutes, with about 10 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cooking time. It works well for both family dinners and meal prep.

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken when I want a lighter version. I like adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition. When I want more heat, I add red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder. For a cheesy twist, I mix in mozzarella or extra Parmesan at the end.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, I add a small splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture. This dish also freezes well for up to two months, and I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I often prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge, since the flavors deepen nicely after resting.

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

I have used small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells, and they work well as substitutes.

How can I make this dish lighter?

I replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or reduce the amount of cheese when I want a lighter version.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

I find that kids usually enjoy the creamy texture and mild flavors, especially without added spice.

Can I freeze leftovers?

I freeze leftovers in sealed containers, and they reheat well with a little added liquid.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to this ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce because it is comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. I love how the creamy sauce ties everything together and turns a few simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. This recipe has become one I rely on when I want something reliable, cozy, and delicious on the table.