Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Sometimes the most satisfying meals come from the simplest combinations, and this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce perfectly proves that point. This one-pan wonder transforms everyday ground beef and rice-shaped orzo pasta into a restaurant-quality dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

The magic happens when savory ground beef meets tender orzo pasta in a rich, velvety tomato cream sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel special while remaining incredibly approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.

What is “Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce”?

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a hearty, one-pan pasta dish that combines seasoned ground beef with orzo pasta in a luxurious tomato-based cream sauce. Orzo, which means “barley” in Italian, is a small, rice-shaped pasta that’s perfect for absorbing flavors and creating satisfying, spoon-friendly bites.

This dish takes inspiration from traditional Italian cooking techniques but adapts them for busy modern kitchens. The result is a creamy, protein-rich meal that’s substantial enough to serve as a complete dinner yet refined enough for entertaining guests.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 3 cups beef broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Cook Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delicious Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is easier than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfect results every time:

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Season the beef with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning while cooking.
• Once browned, remove the beef from the pan and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

• Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan if needed.
• Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• The tomato paste will deepen in color and become aromatic, which adds depth to the final sauce.

3. Toast the Orzo:

• Add the orzo pasta to the pan and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
• This toasting step adds a nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• You’ll notice the orzo becoming slightly golden and aromatic.

4. Build the Base:

• Pour in the beef broth gradually while stirring to prevent sticking.
• Add the drained diced tomatoes, remaining Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
• Return the browned ground beef to the pan and stir to combine all ingredients.

5. Simmer and Cook:

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover.
• Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
• The orzo should be creamy but not dry; add more broth if needed during cooking.

6. Create the Cream Sauce:

• Remove the pan from heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream.
• Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
• The residual heat will be enough to incorporate the cream without curdling.

7. Final Touches:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• Stir in the fresh basil and parsley just before serving.
• Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Substitutions and Variations

This versatile Ground Beef Orzo recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences:

• Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for different flavor profiles. Plant-based ground meat works well for vegetarian versions.
• Pasta Options: While orzo is traditional, small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti can work in a pinch.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
• Vegetable Additions: Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice Level: Increase red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for more heat, or omit them entirely for a milder dish.
• Cheese Variations: Try Pecorino Romano, aged white cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of just Parmesan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Ground Beef Orzo turns out perfectly:

• Overcrowding the Pan: Use a large enough skillet or Dutch oven to allow proper browning of the beef without steaming.
• Not Draining Diced Tomatoes: Excess liquid from canned tomatoes can make the dish watery and prevent proper orzo cooking.
• Adding Cream Too Early: Always remove from heat before adding cream to prevent curdling from high temperatures.
• Skipping the Orzo Toasting: This crucial step adds depth of flavor that shouldn’t be missed.
• Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts much better and provides superior flavor and texture.
• Not Monitoring Liquid Levels: Orzo absorbs liquid quickly, so keep extra broth on hand if the mixture becomes too dry during cooking.

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

This hearty Ground Beef Orzo serves beautifully as a complete main course. I like to serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks make excellent accompaniments for sopping up any remaining sauce.

For beverages, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs wonderfully with the tomato and beef flavors. If you prefer white wine, a crisp Pinot Grigio provides a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

Elevate your Ground Beef Orzo presentation with these simple yet effective ideas:

• Family Style: Serve directly from the cooking pan for a rustic, homestyle presentation that keeps the dish warm longer.
• Individual Bowls: Portion into warmed bowls and top each serving with extra grated Parmesan and a sprig of fresh basil.
• Garnish Accent: A light dusting of smoked paprika around the rim of the bowl adds visual appeal and hints at the flavors within.
• Herb Oil Drizzle: Create a simple basil oil by blending fresh basil with olive oil, then drizzle lightly over each serving for restaurant-style presentation.

Ground Beef Orzo Recipe Tips

Here are my tried-and-true tips for making this dish even better:

• Choose the Right Ground Beef: An 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio provides the best flavor and texture without being too greasy.
• Room Temperature Cream: Let heavy cream sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before adding to prevent temperature shock.
• Fresh Herb Timing: Add delicate herbs like basil at the very end to preserve their bright color and flavor.
• Make It Ahead: The dish can be made up to the cream addition, then finished just before serving for optimal texture.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe doubles easily for meal prep or feeding a crowd, just use a larger pot.
• Leftovers Hack: Add a splash of broth when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.

How to Store Ground Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce

Allow the orzo to cool completely before storing (within 2 hours of cooking for food safety). Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The cream sauce may thicken considerably when cold, which is normal.

For freezing, I recommend storing the dish without the cream sauce if possible, as cream-based sauces can separate when frozen. The base recipe (without cream) freezes well for up to 3 months.

When reheating from the refrigerator, add a splash of beef broth or cream to restore the proper consistency. Heat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cream sauce. Store the base in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, then reheat gently and stir in the cream and cheese just before serving.

Q: What if I can’t find orzo pasta?
A: Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken vermicelli work well. Adjust cooking time according to the pasta package directions.

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: While heavy cream provides the best texture, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk. For milk, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with the milk before adding to prevent curdling.

Q: How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
A: Always remove the pan from heat before adding cream, and add it slowly while stirring continuously. Using room temperature cream also helps.

Q: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, brown the beef and sauté aromatics first, then transfer to a slow cooker with broth and tomatoes. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, then stir in cream and cheese during the last 15 minutes.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Traditional orzo is made from wheat, but you can substitute with gluten-free orzo or rice-shaped pasta alternatives.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce represents everything I love about comfort food cooking – it’s approachable, satisfying, and delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. This recipe transforms simple, affordable ingredients into a dish that feels both familiar and special.

The beauty of this one-pan meal lies in its versatility and forgiveness. Whether you’re cooking for family weeknight dinners or entertaining friends, this dish adapts to any occasion. The combination of perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender orzo, and rich tomato cream sauce creates a harmony of flavors that appeals to both adults and children.

I encourage you to make this recipe your own by experimenting with the suggested variations and substitutions. With proper technique and quality ingredients, you’ll create a memorable meal that brings everyone to the table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, satisfying bite!