Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts hearty, creamy, and soul-satisfying, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender orzo pasta simmered right alongside juicy ground beef, all enveloped in a velvety tomato cream sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together the warmth of home-cooked comfort food with the ease of weeknight cooking. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something extra cozy, this mouthwatering meal is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of everyday ingredients can create something so comforting and flavorful. Each element in this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe plays a unique role, from building depth of flavor to adding a pop of color or a silky finish.
- Olive oil: Gives your beef a golden sear and infuses the base with rich flavor.
- Ground beef: The star protein, providing heartiness and savoriness to every forkful.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion brings natural sweetness and transforms the sauce’s depth.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an irresistible aroma and a gentle kick.
- Dried oregano: A classic herb that brings out those Italian-inspired flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For just a hint of heat—add more or less to taste!
- Tomato sauce: Forms the luscious backbone of the creamy sauce.
- Diced tomatoes: Adds texture and a burst of tomato brightness.
- Beef broth: Deepens the savory notes and helps cook the orzo to perfection.
- Heavy cream: The secret to that dreamy, velvety finish.
- Orzo pasta: This tiny pasta cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up every bit of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances every ingredient and lets the flavors shine.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts in at the end for an extra creamy, nutty pop.
- Fresh basil or parsley: A fresh, herby garnish that brightens up the whole dish.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns. Don’t rush this step; a good sear gives the beef extra flavor. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep your sauce silky, not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once your beef is beautifully browned, stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and the kitchen smells utterly delicious. This is also a great moment to toss in the dried oregano and optional red pepper flakes, letting them bloom in the hot pan for just a minute.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine—you’ll see the sauce instantly turn a gorgeous rosy color. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible, hinting at the creamy richness to come.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Stir in the uncooked orzo, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the orzo cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. As the pasta cooks, it soaks up all those wonderful flavors, thickening the sauce to a perfect, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
When the orzo is tender and the sauce is luscious, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for a final hit of creamy, umami goodness. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, and serve your Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe warm and bubbling.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a generous shower of fresh basil or parsley on top. A final dusting of extra Parmesan or even a sprinkle of cracked black pepper can really make each bowl pop, both visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlicky roasted vegetables for balance. A slice of crusty bread is practically a must for mopping up every last drop of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the orzo into individual ramekins and top with a little extra cheese before broiling until bubbly. Or serve it family-style in a big, colorful bowl at the center of the table—everyone can help themselves!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and get even better with time, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to.
Freezing
If you want to freeze some for later, let the orzo cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if it’s thickened in the fridge. Stir well to restore that creamy, dreamy consistency you love.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! While this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is classic with beef, ground turkey or chicken make excellent lighter alternatives and soak up the flavors just as beautifully.
What if I don’t have orzo pasta?
Small pastas like ditalini or even small shells can be swapped in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time as needed so they’re perfectly tender.
Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can easily leave them out for a mild, kid-friendly version. Or, dial up the heat if your crew loves a little kick!
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even a handful of baby spinach stirred in at the end are all fabulous ways to add color and extra nutrition.
How can I make this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free orzo or substitute with a small gluten-free pasta shape. Double-check that your beef broth is gluten-free too, and you’re all set.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, I can’t recommend this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe enough. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it quickly earns a spot in your regular meal rotation!
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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting one-pot pasta dish featuring tender orzo cooked in a rich and creamy tomato sauce with savory ground beef. Bursting with Italian-inspired flavors, this easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner and garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, uncooked
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5–6 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices: Mix in dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to coat the beef mixture evenly with the spices.
- Combine Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir thoroughly, then add the uncooked orzo pasta along with salt and black pepper.
- Simmer Until Orzo is Tender: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened to a rich, creamy consistency.
- Finish with Cheese and Garnish: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of red wine when cooking the onions to deepen the flavor.
- This dish reheats well; when reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg