Ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce is a comforting, hearty meal that combines rich, savory flavors with the creamy texture of the sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, as it’s quick to prepare yet satisfying enough to feel like a treat. The ground beef adds a robust taste, while the orzo absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the sauce. In this recipe, we also add fresh spinach and Parmesan for extra nutrition and depth of flavor. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious dish and for tips on customizing it to suit your taste!
What is Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce?
Ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce is a one-pot pasta dish featuring ground beef, tender orzo, and a creamy tomato sauce infused with garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth. The spinach adds color and nutrition, while the Parmesan cheese rounds out the dish with a savory, cheesy finish. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need something quick but crave something comforting and flavorful.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
- ¾ cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit your preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and double the spinach or add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. For a lighter version of the cream sauce, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich. If you want to spice things up, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or using hot Italian sausage in place of ground beef.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Cook the Ground Beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add the chopped onion to the other side. Cook the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute or until fragrant.
- Add Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients: Stir the crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and Italian seasoning into the beef mixture. Then, add the beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Orzo: Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the uncooked orzo. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the orzo cook in the sauce for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should be tender, and the sauce will thicken as it cooks.
- Finish with Spinach and Parmesan: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. Finally, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
How to Cook Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this dish is straightforward, but there are a few key steps that ensure it turns out perfectly. First, browning the ground beef properly is essential for adding flavor. Be sure to cook the beef over medium-high heat and break it up as it cooks so that it browns evenly. Adding the onion and garlic at the right time is also important, as this helps build a flavor base for the sauce. Cooking the orzo directly in the sauce not only saves on washing extra pots but also allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors of the tomato cream sauce. This method creates a thick, velvety sauce that clings to each piece of orzo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Orzo: Orzo cooks quickly, especially when simmered in a sauce. Keep an eye on the pasta, and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet or becoming mushy. Remove the dish from heat as soon as the orzo is tender but still has a bit of bite (al dente).
- Skipping the Drain on Ground Beef: If you use ground beef that isn’t lean, it’s crucial to drain the excess fat after browning it. Failing to do so can result in a greasy sauce. If you prefer, you can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey to avoid this step.
- Not Adjusting the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Parmesan cheese can add saltiness, so it’s best to season after adding the cheese.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if it burns. Make sure you sauté the garlic only until fragrant, which takes just about 30 seconds to a minute.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To make this meal even more inviting, consider serving it with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread. The richness of the tomato cream sauce pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, you can serve it with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a more well-rounded meal.
For an extra-special touch, finish the dish with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or sprinkle a few extra flakes of Parmesan on top. Freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley can also elevate the presentation.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Serve this dish right from the skillet for a casual, family-style dinner, or plate it individually for a more formal presentation. Spoon generous portions of the creamy orzo onto plates and make sure to scoop up the sauce. For garnish, add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and some fresh herbs if desired. If you're looking for wine pairings, a light red wine like a Pinot Noir or a medium-bodied white like a Chardonnay would complement the richness of the sauce nicely.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
For a restaurant-quality presentation, use shallow bowls to serve the orzo and top each portion with a small heap of fresh spinach leaves or basil for a pop of color. A light dusting of Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper gives a polished finish. If you want to take it up a notch, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the plate's edge for a gourmet touch.
Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. These ingredients bring out the best flavors in the dish. Pre-grated Parmesan or frozen spinach can work in a pinch, but the taste won't be as vibrant.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Browning the ground beef properly adds extra flavor to the dish. Don’t rush this step—let the beef develop a nice color before adding other ingredients.
- Customize Your Heat: The crushed red pepper flakes are optional. If you like a little kick, use them liberally. If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to leave them out altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. The sauce may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
- Can I freeze this dish? You can freeze this dish, but the texture of the orzo may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding extra liquid if needed.
- What can I use as a substitute for orzo? If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small elbow macaroni. You can also use rice, though you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Yes! For a dairy-free version, you can substitute coconut cream or a plant-based cream for the heavy cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
Conclusion
Ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce is a satisfying, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something rich and comforting. With tender orzo, savory beef, and a creamy tomato sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit your taste, and don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan for a delicious finish!
PrintGround Beef Orzo With Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
This ground beef orzo with tomato cream sauce is a perfect blend of savory beef, tender orzo, fresh spinach, and a rich tomato cream sauce. It's an easy one-pot dinner, ideal for busy weeknights. Keywords: ground beef orzo, tomato cream sauce, easy one-pot dinner.
- 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: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
- ¾ cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the orzo, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Reduce heat, then add the heavy cream and parmesan. Stir until well combined.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes for desired spice level.
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
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