Name: Hearty Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving); Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish); 2 cups water or broth

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

When I’m craving something warm, filling, and seriously satisfying, this Hearty Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is one of my go-to recipes. It brings together tender orzo pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy tomato-based sauce in a way that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s easy, family-friendly, and comes together in just one pot—which means less cleanup and more comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it checks all the boxes for a weeknight dinner: it’s quick, uses simple ingredients, and is packed with flavor. The combination of tomato and cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to the orzo perfectly, and the ground beef adds the hearty texture I crave in a one-dish meal. It’s cozy, rich, and versatile—ideal for feeding a family or just enjoying leftovers the next day. Hearty Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Orzo pasta
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Olive oil
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
I add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Then I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
I add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. I drain any excess fat if needed.
I stir in the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, followed by the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
I add the uncooked orzo and enough water or broth to cover everything (about 2 cups). I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender—about 10–12 minutes.
Once the orzo is cooked, I stir in the cream and let everything simmer for a couple more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
I taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve it hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan and some fresh herbs on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick, hearty dinner that feels homemade and comforting.

Variations

I sometimes swap the beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
For a veggie boost, I stir in chopped spinach or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.
If I want a spicier kick, I add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of beef.
I’ve made it with plant-based meat alternatives too—it still turns out rich and satisfying.
To stretch it further, I add a little extra broth and stir in some cooked white beans.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—I let it cool completely before portioning and freezing, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I cook the orzo separately?

Yes, but I like cooking it right in the sauce—it absorbs more flavor and saves me a pot. If I cook it separately, I reduce the liquid in the sauce.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

I’ve used whole milk or half-and-half when I don’t have cream. It works fine, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

What type of tomato base should I use?

Crushed tomatoes give a slightly chunky texture, while tomato sauce gives a smooth finish. I go with whatever I have on hand.

Can I double this recipe?

Definitely. I just make sure to use a large enough pot and adjust the liquid slightly as needed to keep the orzo from sticking.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy tomato sauce and mild seasoning make it a hit with kids. I often leave out any spicy ingredients when cooking for little ones.

Conclusion

This Hearty Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is everything I want in a comfort meal—rich, cozy, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish I make when I need something that feels like home, and it always leaves me full and happy. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just myself, this one’s a keeper.