Go Back
–+ servings
Ground Beef Orzo

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo: A Comforting Family Favorite

Quick and creamy Ground Beef Orzo is a comforting family favorite that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat and Pasta
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can be swapped with turkey or chicken
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Any small pasta can be substituted
For the Aromatics and Spice
  • 1 medium Onion Can use shallots for a milder flavor
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh is best; pre-minced works in a pinch
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Use Italian herbs for substitute
For the Sauce
  • 8 ounces Tomato Sauce Homemade or store-bought
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Chicken broth is a suitable alternative
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with half-and-half
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can be used for umami flavor
For the Cheesy Finish
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated mozzarella can be used as substitute
For the Greens
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Kale or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef Orzo
  1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and let it brown undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes until it develops a nice sear.
  2. Once the beef is nicely browned, add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Allow to sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the orzo pasta and stir well.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle bubble and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh baby spinach. Cover for 3-5 minutes to let it thicken and meld flavors.
  6. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm with crusty bread or a light salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Monitor the liquid levels while cooking to prevent sticking. Let the pot sit covered for a few minutes after cooking for perfect creamy texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!