Description
Looking for a cozy, flavorful one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and simple? This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the answer. Packed with tender orzo pasta simmered in a velvety tomato and cream sauce, combined with savory ground beef and wilted spinach, it’s everything you need for a comforting dinner idea. Whether you're after a quick dinner, a food idea for busy weeknights, or an easy recipe that doesn't sacrifice flavor, this dish checks every box. It's the perfect blend of creamy, hearty, and nourishing—all done in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)
1 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups beef or chicken broth
0.5 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
0.5 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach (large handfuls)
0.25 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef, break it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Mix in tomato paste and stir to coat the beef. Add the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
5. Pour in broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring often.
6. Once orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed, add heavy cream and stir well.
7. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
8. Turn off heat and stir in Parmesan if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
9. Serve warm with optional extra cheese or fresh herbs.
Notes
Use a wide, deep skillet to ensure even cooking and creamy texture without overcooking the orzo.
Stir frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking and to help it absorb all the sauce evenly.
Add the cream only after the orzo has cooked to prevent it from curdling or thinning out the sauce too early.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: ground beef recipes, creamy orzo, easy dinner, one pot recipe, quick weeknight meal