Are you looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner that will impress the entire family? Look no further than this delightful Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe. Combining savory ground beef, tender orzo, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce, this dish is a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Keep reading to find out how to make this simple yet delicious meal, including helpful tips and variations for making it your own!
What is "Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce"?
"Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce" is a one-pan meal that combines the satisfying texture of orzo pasta with the bold flavor of ground beef, all smothered in a luscious tomato cream sauce. Orzo, a type of short-cut pasta shaped like large grains of rice, pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of seasoned beef and creamy tomato sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. This recipe is perfect for when you're craving something hearty, but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef (1 lb) – Lean ground beef is the star of the dish, providing richness and flavor.
- Orzo Pasta (1 cup) – Orzo's unique shape allows it to soak up the sauce while maintaining a satisfying bite.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Adds a smooth and subtle richness while sautéing the ground beef.
- Onion (1 small, diced) – Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Brings bold, savory depth to the dish.
- Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz) – The foundation of the tomato sauce, adding tanginess and a slight sweetness.
- Heavy Cream (½ cup) – This is where the creaminess comes from, giving the sauce a luxurious texture.
- Chicken or Beef Broth (2 cups) – Adds depth of flavor while helping to cook the orzo to perfection.
- Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated) – A finishing touch for added umami and richness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning the dish.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – A classic herb to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
- Fresh Basil (for garnish) – Optional, but adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Ground Beef Substitution: If you want a lighter option, you can swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Pasta Variations: While orzo is ideal for this recipe, you can use other small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even small shells.
- Sauce Alternatives: If you're looking to make a lighter sauce, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
- Additional Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers when sautéing the onions and garlic.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce turns out perfect every time.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes). Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomato Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine them with the sautéed onions and garlic. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Orzo in the Sauce: Add the orzo to the skillet, followed by the broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Make It Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir everything together, letting the sauce thicken slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Finishing Touches: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Orzo: Be sure to keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks in the sauce. Overcooked orzo can become mushy, so taste it frequently to ensure it's al dente.
- Skipping the Sauté: Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic—this step builds the flavor foundation for the entire dish. Without it, your sauce may lack depth.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Make sure to season both the ground beef and the sauce adequately as you cook. Under-seasoning will result in a bland dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can elevate this dish from simple comfort food to an impressive meal worthy of guests. Here’s how to serve and present your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce for maximum appeal.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
- Individual Bowls: Scoop the orzo into shallow bowls for each serving. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Family-Style: For a more casual meal, serve the entire skillet at the table and allow everyone to help themselves. Place extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, and crusty bread nearby for added indulgence.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprig of fresh basil or parsley can brighten up the dish and add a contrasting color that makes it visually appealing.
- Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top just before serving adds richness and sheen to the dish.
- Use Colorful Serveware: Plating the dish in a bright or patterned bowl can make the vibrant red sauce pop even more.
Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the orzo, and finish the dish as instructed.
- Reheating: This dish reheats well! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked sauce (without the orzo) for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight, reheat it, and then proceed with cooking the orzo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can! While orzo works perfectly in this dish, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even couscous.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. Be aware that it may slightly alter the flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Its creamy, savory sauce paired with tender orzo and flavorful ground beef will satisfy any craving for a hearty meal. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations and make it your own!
PrintGround Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe features tender orzo, juicy ground beef, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is flavorful and easy to make. Ground beef adds protein, while the tomato cream sauce brings a luxurious texture and depth of flavor. It's a satisfying meal that's sure to be a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 ½ cups orzo
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Stir in tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook orzo in a pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato sauce. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, increase the amount of heavy cream.
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
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