Ground Beef Orzo

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic schedules.
  • One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup required, as everything cooks in a single pot.
  • Family-Friendly: The creamy, flavorful combination appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins or added vegetables to suit your taste.

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 fresh baby spinach, packed
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to brown, then stir and break it into smaller pieces.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Incorporate Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the pot, stirring to coat it with the beef and aromatics.
  4. Add Liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
  5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened, approximately 10 minutes.
  6. Finish the Dish: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes to thicken further, then serve hot.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat, or omit them for a milder dish.
  • Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or fontina for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the mixture has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through.
  • Freezing: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as the cream sauce may separate upon freezing and reheating.

FAQs

What is orzo?

Orzo is a type of small, rice-shaped pasta commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While orzo is recommended for its texture, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells can be used as substitutes.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with gluten-free pasta alternatives. Ensure all other ingredients, like broth and Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether.

Is this dish spicy?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but the dish is not overly spicy. Adjust the amount to suit your preference.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this creamy orzo dish.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pot?

Stir the mixture occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking, and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it in advance and reheat gently, adding a bit of liquid to restore its creamy consistency.

What type of ground beef is best?

Using lean ground beef (at least 90% lean) is recommended to reduce excess fat in the dish.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a go-to recipe for any night of the week.

 

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Ground Beef Orzo

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
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Description

Savor the comforting flavors of Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce! This one-pot recipe combines tender orzo pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato cream sauce, finished with fresh spinach and Parmesan for a delightful weeknight meal. Perfect for busy families and ready in just 30 minutes.

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 fresh baby spinach, packed
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Brown the Beef: Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned. Break it into smaller pieces.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning; cook until fragrant.
  • Add Orzo: Stir in uncooked orzo to coat it with the beef mixture.
  • Incorporate Liquids: Add tomato sauce, beef broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
  • Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
  • Finish the Dish: Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach until spinach wilts. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Serve: Let rest for a few minutes to thicken and serve warm.

Notes

  • Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or sausage for variety.
  • Add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more nutrients.
  • Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: 4 servings
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Dinner, Main Course

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