Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish that's sure to become a family favorite. This simple yet delicious recipe brings together tender orzo pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy tomato sauce that's packed with flavor. The best part? It’s easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. Whether you're preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or serving guests, this dish will leave everyone craving more. Read on to discover how to perfect this recipe, from the ingredients list to serving and presentation tips.

What is Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?
Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting one-pan meal that combines the rich, savory flavors of ground beef with the soft, pillowy texture of orzo pasta. It’s all tied together with a creamy tomato sauce that’s seasoned to perfection. If you're unfamiliar with orzo, it’s a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of any dish it's added to, making it ideal for this type of recipe. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your tastes or dietary needs, which we’ll discuss later in the substitutions and variations section.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Before you begin cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to avoid too much excess fat.
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta: Orzo resembles rice but is actually pasta, making it perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth of flavor.
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings out the best in the tomato sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Use fire-roasted for extra flavor, or regular diced tomatoes for a classic taste.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor in the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
- 1 ½ cups beef broth: Adds moisture and infuses the orzo with flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a herby note.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat if you like spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): Chopped herbs for garnish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For serving.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is versatile, and there are plenty of ways you can make adjustments based on what you have available or your dietary preferences.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Lactose-Free: Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream to make the dish lactose-free.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out the orzo for gluten-free pasta, or even use quinoa or rice.
- Spicy Version: Add more crushed red pepper flakes, or even a diced jalapeño, to turn up the heat.
- Different Cheeses: Instead of Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, or even ricotta for a creamier finish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to make your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and gathering all your spices and liquids. This will make the cooking process smooth.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Diced Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize and deepen in flavor. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes (including their juices) and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in Beef Broth and Seasonings: Add the beef broth, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Lower the heat and cover the pan. Cook the orzo for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish with Heavy Cream: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked ground beef to the pan. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Cook Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep and Brown the Meat: Cooking ground beef properly is essential for building flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning.
- Layer Flavors with Aromatics: Onions and garlic are sautéed to release their natural sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the tomato cream sauce.
- Add Tomato and Liquids: Combining tomato paste with diced tomatoes and beef broth creates a rich, tangy base that orzo will soak up as it cooks.
- Simmer Until Tender: Orzo cooks directly in the sauce, so simmering ensures it becomes tender while absorbing all the flavors.
- Finish with Cream: Adding heavy cream at the end results in a luscious, smooth sauce that brings everything together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: When browning the ground beef, give it space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Not Sautéing Tomato Paste: Skipping this step can result in a less intense tomato flavor.
- Undercooking or Overcooking the Orzo: Orzo cooks quickly, so be sure to check it regularly to avoid a mushy or undercooked texture.
- Forgetting to Adjust Seasoning: As the orzo absorbs liquid, you may need to add more salt or pepper to enhance the final flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can elevate a simple dish like Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce. Here are a few ideas to help you make it look as good as it tastes:
- Use a Large Serving Bowl: Serve the dish family-style in a large, colorful bowl with fresh basil leaves scattered over the top.
- Top with Extra Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
- Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a glossy finish to the dish, making it look more vibrant.
- Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this rich and creamy dish.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
This dish can be served as a main course, accompanied by simple sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad. You can also garnish individual servings with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, more Parmesan, and a pinch of crushed red pepper for those who like a bit of heat.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
- Elegant Plates: Serve in shallow, wide-rimmed bowls to give a gourmet touch to this rustic dish.
- Herb Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil on each plate can add color and freshness.
- Side of Breadsticks or Garlic Bread: A side of crispy breadsticks or garlic bread will not only taste great but also help to scoop up the creamy sauce.
Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it. Just add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it creamy.
- Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can also be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding some extra cream or broth to restore its texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Yes! You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add some liquid when reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.
Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?
A: Absolutely. This dish freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. Add extra cream or broth when reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
Q: Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice can be used as a substitute.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: A fresh green salad or garlic bread makes a great side dish to complement the rich, creamy orzo.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy. The creamy tomato sauce combined with tender orzo and savory ground beef is a perfect meal for any occasion. The recipe’s versatility allows you to make substitutions based on your preferences, and the step-by-step instructions make it foolproof. Try this recipe tonight and watch it become a new favorite at your dinner table!
PrintGround Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
This ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce is a delicious and hearty meal. With ground beef, orzo, and a creamy tomato sauce, it's the perfect comfort food. Quick and easy to make, it's ideal for busy weeknights. Keywords: ground beef orzo, tomato cream sauce, easy weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup orzo
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart. Cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Fold in the cooked orzo, and stir until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Adjust the creaminess by adding more or less heavy cream to taste.
- Add spinach or other veggies for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
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