If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautiful blend of tender ground beef, tiny orzo pasta pearls, and a luscious tomato cream sauce that’s seasoned just right. Every bite delivers a rich, comforting flavor with a subtle hint of spice and a fresh pop of spinach to keep things vibrant. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish hits the perfect balance between hearty and luscious in the most satisfying way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together so simply, yet each plays a vital role in making this dish unforgettable. From the savory ground beef to the creamy Parmesan and fresh spinach, every element adds its own unique texture, flavor, and color.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The star protein providing meaty richness and a satisfying chew.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and body to deepen the flavor.
- 3-4 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a warm, aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Just a touch of heat to keep things interesting.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that brings cozy Mediterranean vibes.
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: Tiny pasta pearls that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce: The base of the creamy tomato sauce, rich and tangy.
- 3/4 cup beef broth: Adds depth and helps cook the orzo perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: The magic ingredient that turns the tomato sauce silky and indulgent.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and adds a complex tangy note.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch that melts in for a nutty, savory kick.
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Juicy greens that brighten the dish and add freshness.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into harmony.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by adding the ground beef to a soup pot or Dutch oven. Break it up gently with your spoon and let it sizzle over medium-high heat without stirring for 5 to 6 minutes. This gives the beef a nice sear and builds a deep flavor foundation for the whole dish.
Step 2: Add Onion and Cook Until Tender
Next, toss in the chopped onion. Stir and break the beef into smaller pieces as you cook everything together for about 5 more minutes. If you spot excess fat pooling, especially if your beef isn’t super lean, scoop out some—but leaving a little fat helps enrich the sauce.
Step 3: Incorporate Garlic, Spices, and Orzo
Now, stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Then add the uncooked orzo pasta and cook for about one minute. This quick sauté wakes up the aromatics and starts to toast the pasta for extra flavor and texture.
Step 4: Combine with Sauces and Simmer
Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Once the mixture bubbles, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low. Let it gently simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Stir frequently to keep the orzo from sticking and to allow it to absorb all those luscious flavors without the sauce reducing too fast.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Spinach
Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and the packed baby spinach. Cover and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes so the greens wilt and the sauce thickens to a dreamy consistency. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding some fresh garnishes really elevates this dish. Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top for a salty, melty finish or scatter chopped fresh basil for a fragrant, herbaceous note. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add more depth and personality if you like a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
Since the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is rich and filling, light and crisp sides are perfect to balance the meal. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic roasted broccoli, or steamed asparagus. Crusty bread also pairs wonderfully to soak up every last drop of that creamy tomato goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a few baby spinach leaves. You could also turn it into a baked casserole by transferring it to a baking dish, topping with more cheese, and broiling it until golden and bubbly. Presentation with a colorful serving platter and fresh herbs always makes it feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely, making it taste even better the next day. Just be sure to stir it well before reheating.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to save portions for busy days. Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve texture.
Reheating
Reheat the dish on the stovetop over low to medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Stir frequently and cook until warmed through. You can also microwave leftovers covered, stirring halfway to heat evenly. A gentle touch keeps the orzo tender without drying out the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is perfect because of its size and texture, small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even couscous can work well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different pastas vary in how quickly they cook.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor and texture will be a little different but still creamy and delicious.
Can Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and you’ll still get plenty of rich, comforting flavors.
How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. If you prefer your dish milder, simply omit them. They’re there to add just a subtle kick that complements the tomato cream sauce.
What type of ground beef is best to use?
Lean ground beef around 90% lean is ideal for this recipe—you get that meaty flavor without too much excess fat. If you use fattier beef, just be sure to drain some fat after cooking to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a home-cooked meal that feels cozy, decadent, and straightforward all at once. This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe does exactly that. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor, and share moments with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite weeknight dinner!
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Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe that combines tender orzo pasta with savory ground beef and a rich, creamy tomato sauce. This one-pot dish is flavored with garlic, Italian seasoning, and finished with fresh spinach and parmesan cheese for a deliciously balanced meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 3/4 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to a soup pot or Dutch oven and break it up a bit with a spoon. Let it cook without stirring over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes until it starts to brown.
- Add Onions and Continue Cooking: Stir in the chopped onions and break the beef into smaller pieces. Cook for another 5 minutes until onions soften. If excess fat accumulates, spoon some out, otherwise leave it for flavor.
- Sauté Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, and orzo pasta. Cook for about one minute to toast the orzo slightly and release flavors.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir and bring to a gentle bubble over medium heat, then reduce heat to medium or medium-low. Let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent orzo from sticking, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish with Cheese and Spinach: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese and fresh baby spinach. Cover the pot and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving immediately.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat; if using fattier beef, drain grease as needed.
- Stir frequently during the simmering step to prevent orzo from sticking and burning.
- If the sauce is too thick before pasta is cooked, add a splash of beef broth or water.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale or other leafy greens.
- For a spicier dish, increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated and may thicken further, so add a splash of broth when reheating.
