Name: Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach or a handful of basil (optional)

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is that dreamy one-pot dinner that checks all the boxes—comforting, hearty, and deeply satisfying. With tender orzo pasta simmered in a rich tomato cream sauce and crumbled ground beef, this meal brings warmth to the table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without a pile of dishes.

The best part? It tastes like it came from a cozy Italian kitchen. The orzo soaks up all the creamy tomato goodness, and a finishing sprinkle of mozzarella or parmesan makes it melty and irresistible. It’s kid-approved, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable with veggies or fresh herbs.

What Kind of Orzo Should I Use?

You can use any store-bought orzo, but make sure it’s the classic rice-shaped pasta—not pearled couscous or anything similar. Whole wheat orzo works great if you’re looking for extra fiber. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the brand.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Ground beef – Brings protein and flavor to the dish. You can also swap for turkey or Italian sausage.

Orzo pasta – This tiny pasta cooks right in the sauce and gives a creamy risotto-like texture.

Tomato paste & crushed tomatoes – Create the bold tomato base. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth.

Heavy cream – Adds richness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Garlic & onion – The flavor foundation of any great savory dish.

Beef broth – Infuses extra savory depth and helps cook the orzo.

Italian seasoning – A simple blend to add herby flavor without fuss.

Spinach or basil (optional) – Adds a pop of green and freshness to balance the richness.

Shredded mozzarella or parmesan – For that melty, cheesy finish.

How To Make the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, coating the beef and onion mixture. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Add the Orzo and Broth

Pour in the orzo pasta and beef broth. Give everything a good stir, then bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Greens

Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. If using spinach or fresh basil, fold it in at this stage until just wilted.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Serve

Sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan over the top. Cover for a minute or two to let the cheese melt into the dish. Serve hot with extra cheese or basil if desired.

How to Serve and Store Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

This cozy skillet meal is best served hot, straight from the pan with a spoonful of melty cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a comforting dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl.

If you’re prepping ahead, this dish stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a bowl with a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—ideal for busy weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste for a warm, smoky kick.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, but adjust the liquid and cook time. Short pasta like ditalini or small shells work well, though they might not absorb as much sauce as orzo.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very much so! The creamy tomato flavor is mellow and cheesy—a favorite with little ones.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the ground beef for lentils, plant-based crumbles, or mushrooms for a meat-free version.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk are great alternatives. Greek yogurt also works for a tangier, lighter version.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger skillet or Dutch oven. Be sure to stir frequently so the orzo doesn’t stick.

Want More Pasta Skillet Ideas?

If you’re into one-pot comfort food like this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce, you’ll love these other cozy dinner favorites:

One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a buttery twist with bold flavor.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you’re craving cheesy indulgence.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a veggie-packed skillet.
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef for a bold, garlicky punch.
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup if you want all the flavors of lasagna in spoonable form.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can whip it up whenever the craving strikes.

Want more easy comfort meals and creamy pasta dishes? Check out all my latest dinner recipes over on Pinterest:
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And if you made this Ground Beef Orzo, let me know in the comments how it turned out. Did you sneak in extra veggies? Go heavy on the cheese? I’d love to hear how you made it your own!