Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

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When comfort food calls, this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce answers with a big, warm hug. It’s creamy, cheesy, meaty, and loaded with cozy flavor in every bite. The orzo soaks up the luscious tomato cream sauce while the savory ground beef adds heartiness that turns this into a full, satisfying meal.

Best of all? It’s a one-pot dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday cravings. The silky sauce clings to each orzo grain, balanced beautifully by melted cheese and a handful of fresh basil. If you love pasta dishes that deliver rich flavor without the fuss, this one deserves a spot in your rotation.

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What Kind of Orzo Should I Use?

Look for classic durum wheat orzo—its sturdy texture holds up well to the creamy sauce. Whole wheat orzo also works if you want a bit more fiber, though the flavor will be slightly nuttier. Avoid rice-shaped pastina, which cooks too quickly and turns mushy in this recipe.

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Ingredients for the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

• Ground Beef: A rich and flavorful base that gives the dish its savory bite. Use 80/20 for the best balance of taste and moisture.
• Orzo Pasta: Short-cut pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up every drop of the creamy sauce.
• Tomato Paste & Crushed Tomatoes: This duo builds a deeply savory tomato flavor that’s both rich and tangy.
• Heavy Cream: Adds silkiness to the sauce, making it velvety and luscious.
• Onion & Garlic: Aromatics that infuse every layer of the dish with flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the sauce for added creaminess and gooey goodness.
• Fresh Basil: Brightens the whole dish with a hint of herbaceous freshness.
• Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: Essentials for sautéing and seasoning to bring out the best in each ingredient.

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How To Make the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Add Tomato Base

Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Pour in the Cream

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently until the sauce is rich and thickened.

Step 5: Add the Orzo

Stir in the uncooked orzo and about 2 cups of water. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Basil

Turn off the heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and chopped fresh basil. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

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Serving and Storing Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

This dish is best served hot, straight from the pot, with extra basil on top and a sprinkle of parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up.

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What to Serve With Ground Beef Orzo?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy and buttery, it’s the perfect companion to mop up the extra sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness.

Roasted Vegetables

Roast some broccoli, carrots, or zucchini on the side for added nutrition.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Double up on the comfort with these crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside bites.

Creamy Cucumber Salad

Cool and refreshing—a great palate cleanser.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this cozy orzo recipe hits the spot, you might also love these Savor Queen favorites:

• Easy Beef Stroganoff with tender noodles and savory sauce.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a cheesy, protein-packed twist.
• One Pan Cajun Honey Butter Steak Pasta Wonder when you’re craving bold, spicy flavors.
• Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight for ultimate weeknight comfort.
• Delicious Philly Cheese Steak Pasta for a fun twist on a sandwich favorite.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you swapped the beef for turkey or added red pepper flakes? I’d love to hear your version—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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