Description
This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the ultimate quick dinner recipe — creamy, comforting, and full of bold, savory flavor. It’s a one-pot wonder that cooks in under 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you still want something hearty. Tender orzo pasta is simmered in a rich tomato sauce with seasoned ground beef and finished with a splash of cream. Whether you’re after easy dinner ideas, satisfying food ideas, or a cozy meal for the whole family, this dish checks all the boxes for a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 cup orzo pasta
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to develop flavor.
5. Add crushed tomatoes and mix well with the beef.
6. Pour in beef broth and add orzo. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
8. Stir in heavy cream and let simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
9. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh basil.
10. Top with mozzarella if using, cover, and let melt. Serve warm.
Notes
Stir the orzo while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Adjust seasoning gradually — always taste before adding more salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: quick dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, one-pot pasta, ground beef recipe