Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

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When I’m craving comfort food that doesn’t take forever to make, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is always top of mind. It’s rich, creamy, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes. Orzo cooks up beautifully in a luscious tomato sauce that’s kissed with cream, and the addition of savory ground beef makes this a complete and hearty meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this dish always hits the spot.

I love how the orzo soaks up all the saucy goodness while still keeping a bit of bite. The tomato cream sauce gives it just the right balance of acidity and richness, and finishing it with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley takes it over the top. It’s one of those meals you can throw together with pantry staples and a pack of ground beef — perfect when you need something easy and soul-satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

This dish brings together simple ingredients in the most flavorful way. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. The creamy tomato base is both tangy and rich, while the orzo gives you the coziness of pasta with a quicker cook time. Plus, ground beef makes it filling enough to stand alone as a complete dinner.

What Kind of Orzo Should I Use?

Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor like a dream. You can use regular or whole wheat orzo depending on your preference. I prefer traditional orzo because it keeps a soft but slightly chewy texture that works beautifully in creamy sauces. Just be sure not to overcook it — you want it tender, not mushy.

Options for Substitutions

If you don’t have ground beef on hand, ground turkey or Italian sausage are great alternatives. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or sautéed mushrooms. You can swap out the cream for half-and-half or even Greek yogurt in a pinch, though the sauce will be slightly tangier. Parmesan is optional but highly recommended — and if you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based parmesan or nutritional yeast for a similar finish.

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Ingredients for this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Ground Beef – The heart of the dish, bringing savory richness and protein.
• Orzo Pasta – A small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all the sauce.
• Onion – Adds a sweet, aromatic base to deepen the flavor.
• Garlic – Infuses the sauce with sharp, earthy flavor.
• Tomato Paste – Concentrated tomato flavor that forms the base of the sauce.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Adds body, acidity, and a classic tomato taste.
• Beef Broth – Intensifies the savory profile while helping cook the orzo.
• Heavy Cream – Brings the luxurious, silky texture to the tomato sauce.
• Olive Oil – Used to sauté the aromatics and beef.
• Salt & Pepper – Basic seasonings to balance and highlight flavors.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the sauce with warm, herby notes.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional) – Adds salty, nutty richness to finish.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional) – For garnish and a burst of freshness.

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Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Seasoning

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Stir in Orzo

Add the dry orzo directly into the skillet. Stir, cover partially, and let it cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and the liquid has reduced.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Once the orzo is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2–3 more minutes to thicken into a creamy, dreamy sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with grated parmesan and chopped parsley if using. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, and enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors.

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How Long to Prepare Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Prep Time

Most of the prep work involves chopping onions and garlic, and gathering your pantry ingredients. You’ll need about 10 minutes to get everything ready.

Cooking Time

The actual cooking takes approximately 20 minutes. From browning the beef to simmering the orzo and finishing with the cream, it all comes together quickly — making this a perfect weeknight option.

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Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Use a deep skillet or sauté pan to give the orzo space to expand and cook evenly.
• Stir the orzo occasionally as it simmers to avoid sticking.
• Taste the dish before adding cream to adjust salt and seasoning as needed.
• Let the sauce thicken slightly before serving — it will continue to absorb as it cools.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and parmesan for a final flavor and texture boost.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Orzo: It should be tender but not mushy. Keep a close eye in the final minutes.
• Too Much Liquid: Simmer uncovered at the end if the sauce is too runny.
• Adding Cream Too Early: High heat can curdle the cream; always add it last over low heat.
• Undercooked Beef: Make sure it’s fully browned before adding other ingredients.
• Not Seasoning in Layers: Season throughout the cooking process to build flavor depth.

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What to Serve With Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?

1. Garlic Bread

A crusty, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect to scoop up the creamy orzo.

2. Simple Green Salad

Something light with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli adds texture and a slightly bitter edge that contrasts beautifully.

4. Steamed Green Beans

Fresh and crisp, they’re a great clean side that complements the hearty orzo.

5. Red Wine

A medium-bodied red like Merlot or Chianti pairs well with the beefy, tomato-rich sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

You can freeze it, but keep in mind the orzo may soften upon reheating. Freeze in portions and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving — based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is orzo, and is it gluten-free?

Orzo is a type of pasta, so it’s not gluten-free unless specifically labeled. You can find gluten-free versions made with rice or corn flour.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook it a day ahead. Just reheat slowly and add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the saucy texture.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but it won’t be as rich. Whole milk is the best substitute for a lighter sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the tomato paste.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild — most kids love it. You can skip the parsley or use less seasoning for picky eaters.

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Conclusion

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl — rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to pull together. It’s family-friendly, customizable, and perfect for when you need dinner fast without sacrificing flavor. Whether you serve it with crusty bread, a crisp salad, or enjoy it all on its own, this meal is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

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