If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely need to try this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe. It’s a delightful one-pot wonder that brilliantly balances the hearty richness of ground beef with tender orzo pasta, all swimming in a luscious tomato cream sauce. Each bite offers a gorgeous blend of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors that come together effortlessly to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends, this recipe is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect flavor and texture in this dish starts with simple, straightforward ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each element plays a role, from the savory ground beef to the creamy touch of heavy cream, creating layers of taste that dance on your palate.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a hearty, meaty base that’s rich but not greasy.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with pungent, aromatic notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a gentle kick of heat to brighten the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings an herby, earthy complexity to the sauce.
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: Small and tender, it cooks quickly and soaks up that creamy tomato sauce beautifully.
- 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce: The tomato base lends tang and richness to the creamy sauce.
- 3/4 cup beef broth: Adds depth of flavor and perfect moisture for cooking the orzo.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Gives a subtle umami boost, enhancing the beefiness.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce to add sharp, nutty notes.
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a mild earthy flavor when wilted.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and elevating all the ingredients.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by adding your ground beef to a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Let it sit over medium-high heat without stirring for about 5 to 6 minutes. This little pause helps develop amazing browning on the meat, unlocking deep, caramelized flavors. After it’s nicely browned on one side, break it up gently with your spoon and continue cooking until fully browned.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Next up, toss in the chopped onion. Stir it into the browned beef, breaking the meat into smaller crumbles as you go. Cook everything together for about 5 more minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. If you notice any excessive fat from the beef, carefully spoon some out. Otherwise, let those flavorful juices stay to enrich the sauce.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Orzo
Now it’s time to pump up the flavor! Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Toss the uncooked orzo pasta right in too. Cook it all together for about a minute, stirring often. This step lets the spices bloom, releasing their full aroma and elevating the dish.
Step 4: Pour in the Liquids
Pour the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce into the pot. Stir everything well to combine and bring it to a gentle bubble. Keep cooking uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to stop the orzo from sticking and burning. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady simmer rather than a boil, allowing the pasta to absorb the creamy tomato goodness perfectly.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Spinach
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and baby spinach. Pop a lid on the pot and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken nicely and the spinach to wilt tenderly, adding a beautiful pop of green and subtle freshness.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Give everything a good final stir, taste the dish, and add salt and pepper as needed to bring out all the flavors. Serve your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe piping hot for maximum taste and comfort.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little something extra on top takes this dish from delicious to show-stopping. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of herbaceous brightness. A few more shavings of parmesan can add cheesiness and texture that make every bite even more decadent.
Side Dishes
This meal is already rich and filling, but pairing it with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables can balance the creaminess beautifully. Think of a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or oven-roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic for some contrast and crunch alongside your pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the pot for that cozy, family-style feel or plate it elegantly on wide pasta bowls topped with fresh herbs and parmesan. For a festive touch, add a drizzle of good olive oil and a few chili flakes on top before serving. Presentation can make the experience feel extra special!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making for an easy, flavorful lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe freezes well, too. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the spinach’s texture may slightly change when frozen, but the flavors will remain fantastic.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without drying out.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well in this recipe and make a tasty, lighter alternative while keeping the same delicious essence of the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the orzo pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure it cooks through perfectly.
Can I use a different cheese instead of parmesan?
Parmesan adds a distinct nutty flavor, but you can try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar taste profile. For a creamier twist, a little mozzarella stirred in at the end never hurts!
What can I do if I don’t have beef broth on hand?
Substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water combined with a dash of soy sauce to maintain the umami depth in the sauce.
How spicy is this recipe with the crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that balances the creaminess without overpowering it. You can always leave them out or add more depending on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels special yet comes together without fuss. Its rich, creamy sauce and hearty ingredients make it a family favorite that never fails to impress. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a go-to recipe on your busy weeknights and beyond. Happy cooking!
Print
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: Italian-American
Description
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a quick and comforting one-pot meal that combines savory browned ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato cream sauce infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. Fresh baby spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, making it a hearty dinner option that satisfies in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Pasta and Liquids
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 3/4 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
Cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to a soup pot or Dutch oven and break it up slightly with your spoon. Let it cook, without stirring, over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes to develop browning and flavor.
- Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot, then stir and further break apart the beef into smaller pieces. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the onion softens. If there’s excess fat (from using non-lean beef), carefully spoon some out, but if not, leave it in.
- Add Aromatics and Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and uncooked orzo pasta. Cook for about one minute, stirring to combine and let the spices bloom.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy/whipping cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well. Once the mixture begins to bubble, continue cooking uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. Reduce heat as needed so it simmers gently rather than boiling, ensuring the pasta cooks through before the liquid evaporates.
- Finish with Cheese & Spinach: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and fresh baby spinach. Place the lid on and let sit for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the spinach to wilt.
- Season and Serve: Stir again, taste, and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish immediately while hot for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat, but you can use regular ground beef and spoon out extra fat if desired.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Fresh baby spinach can be substituted with kale or other leafy greens if preferred.
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent orzo from sticking and burning on the bottom of the pot.
