If there’s a comfort dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table, it’s got to be this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce. Imagine tender orzo pasta mingling with rich ground beef in a velvety tomato and cream sauce, all tied together with the salty kiss of Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s swoon-worthy, weeknight-friendly, and absolutely satisfying—perfect for anyone craving a quick, hearty meal packed with flavor and a touch of elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish truly special is the simplicity of its ingredients—each one playing a star role in building flavor, lending texture, or adding a pop of color. There’s something magical about everyday staples coming together to create a meal that feels both luscious and cozy.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle to start the cooking and add richness to the base flavors.
- Ground Beef: Pick lean ground beef for a meaty, hearty texture and savory depth.
- Yellow Onion: Sautéed until soft, it adds a subtle sweetness and lovely aroma.
- Garlic: Essential for a punch of flavor—don’t skimp on the garlic!
- Italian Seasoning: A bright blend of herbs to give that classic Mediterranean flair.
- Salt: Just enough to bring all the flavors together and enhance the final bite.
- Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth.
- Orzo Pasta: The star grain that soaks up the sauce beautifully for that signature texture.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Use a good quality can for juicy richness and bold tomato flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Swirls into the sauce to deliver irresistible creaminess.
- Beef Broth: Deepens the savory notes and helps the orzo cook to perfection.
- Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for salty, nutty finish—freshly grated is best.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A fresh and bright finishing touch you won’t want to skip if you have it on hand.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by heating olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until it’s softened and fragrant. This step creates a flavor-packed base that sets the stage for a savory, cozy sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef directly to the onions, using your spoon to break it up as it cooks. Brown the beef thoroughly until it’s completely cooked, letting all those savory juices meld with the onion. Once it’s ready, drain off any excess grease to keep the sauce balanced and not too heavy.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Garlic
Toss in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then give everything a good stir. Allow the aromatics to cook for about a minute—just until the garlic is wonderfully fragrant and the seasoning is toastier. This step infuses the meat with flavor from the inside out.
Step 4: Simmer with Orzo, Tomatoes, and Broth
Pour in the orzo, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth, then stir well to combine. Crank up the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover your skillet and let the mixture simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally so the orzo cooks evenly and nothing sticks. The orzo absorbs all the goodness while the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Parmesan
Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been soaked up, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle over the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until the sauce turns creamy and dreamy. Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes if you’d like the sauce a bit thicker. The result is a pot brimming with Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce that’s rich, velvety, and utterly comforting.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, top your skillet with chopped fresh parsley for color and a burst of brightness. This final flourish takes your dish from weeknight wonder to dinner party worthy in seconds!
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Garnishes
A sprinkle of more Parmesan or a handful of chopped parsley makes every bowl of Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce look and taste extra special. If you have it, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a little heat and contrast to the creamy sauce, making each bite pop.
Side Dishes
Pair this cozy pasta with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette for a bit of freshness. Crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also perfect for soaking up every last bit of that luscious tomato cream sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress at a gathering, serve the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce in individual bowls topped with a spiral of cream and a generous shaving of Parmesan. For a family-style meal, bring the whole skillet to the table and let everyone help themselves—trust me, they’ll love the experience!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce keeps beautifully! Simply transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors just get more delicious as they meld together.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze it, scoop portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating to preserve that creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave on medium power in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally, or gently warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of extra broth or cream to revive the sauce. This brings everything back to its luscious, creamy best!
FAQs
Can I make this dish with a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great swap if you’re looking to lighten the dish a touch, and both options soak up the tomato cream sauce beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cooking time; they may cook a bit quicker than ground beef.
Is it possible to make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the orzo with your favorite gluten-free small pasta shape or look for gluten-free orzo at specialty stores. Double-check your beef broth and seasonings to ensure they’re certified gluten-free too.
Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely. Stir in a handful of baby spinach, chopped zucchini, bell pepper, or even peas during the last few minutes of cooking. These additions make the meal colorful, nutritious, and even more satisfying.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, add a splash more beef broth or cream and stir to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a couple more minutes—remember, the orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits.
Can I make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce ahead of time?
For sure! You can prepare the dish completely, store in the refrigerator, and gently reheat before serving. Just add a dash of broth or water to loosen the sauce when reheating for the creamiest results.
Final Thoughts
This is the kind of recipe that finds its way onto the table again and again. Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is easy, comforting, and impressive all at once. I can’t wait for you to dig in, share it, and make it your own family favorite!
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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and comforting, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a delicious one-pot meal that is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The savory flavors of beef, tomatoes, and herbs come together with creamy Parmesan sauce to create a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and sauté onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
- Cook ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add seasonings and orzo: Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add orzo, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer until orzo is tender.
- Finish with cream and cheese: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy. Simmer to thicken if needed. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- For added veggies, stir in spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
