Creamy, cozy, and packed with flavor, Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is that midweek dinner hero you didn’t know you needed. It cooks up in one pan, making cleanup a breeze, and the silky tomato cream sauce clings to every tender grain of orzo for the ultimate comfort food experience. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish transforms into something truly soul-satisfying.

Think of this as a pasta dish that hugs you back. The ground beef brings heartiness, the orzo adds a delicate texture, and the tomato cream sauce ties everything together with a velvety finish. It’s the kind of meal you crave when you want something warm, filling, and just a little indulgent without going overboard.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

You’ll love this dish for how quickly it comes together while still tasting like it simmered all day. The creamy tomato sauce gets a rich boost from the ground beef, creating depth with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want flavor without the fuss.

Plus, orzo cooks fast and absorbs flavor beautifully. This makes it ideal for a one-pan meal where everything melds into a satisfying, cohesive dish. The leftovers? Just as dreamy the next day.

What Kind of Orzo Should I Use?

You can use regular, whole wheat, or even gluten-free orzo in this recipe. Traditional orzo is made from white flour and works wonderfully to soak up all that rich tomato cream goodness. Whole wheat orzo adds a slightly nuttier bite if you’re looking for something a bit heartier. Just keep an eye on cook times as different varieties may soften at different rates.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

A handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients are all you need to bring this creamy orzo dish together. Each one plays a role in building bold, crave-worthy flavor.

Ground beef: Brings savory richness and protein to the dish.
Orzo pasta: A small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor perfectly.
Garlic: Adds depth and aroma.
Onion: Softens and sweetens the base of the dish.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Crushed tomatoes: The base of the tomato cream sauce.
Heavy cream: Balances acidity with richness.
Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Italian seasoning: Adds herby warmth that ties everything together.

How To Make the Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add olive oil to the same pan and stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook until the onion softens and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste and let it caramelize for a minute. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Orzo

Pour in the dry orzo and stir to combine. Add water or broth as needed to help the orzo cook and soak up the sauce. Let it simmer gently, stirring often to prevent sticking, until the orzo is al dente.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream

Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken slightly and coat the pasta completely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Taste for seasoning and serve warm. Top with extra cheese or fresh herbs if you’d like a little flair.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Orzo Recipe

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce feeds about 4 hungry people and is one of those dishes that satisfies all on its own. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, hearty presentation.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce back up. It reheats surprisingly well and might even taste better the next day.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Orzo?

Garlic Bread

Nothing sops up creamy tomato sauce like a slice of buttery, crisp garlic bread.

Roasted Asparagus

A fresh green side like roasted asparagus adds a bright and earthy contrast.

Caprese Salad

The acidity and freshness of a classic caprese salad balances the richness of the orzo beautifully.

Caesar Salad

Creamy Caesar dressing complements the savory sauce while adding crunch.

Sautéed Spinach

Quick and simple, sautéed spinach is a great way to bring greens into the mix without much fuss.

Herby Chicken Meatballs

Double down on comfort and protein by pairing this with herby chicken meatballs.

Naan Bread

A warm piece of homemade naan is a delicious and fun alternative to traditional garlic bread.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this creamy orzo dish, you’ll love diving into more easy and flavorful pasta recipes like these:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a meat-free twist.
One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni that delivers major flavor with little cleanup.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta if you like a little spice in your dinner.
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce for a protein-packed creamy base.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Have you tried this one-pan Ground Beef Orzo yet? Let me know how it turned out for you. Did you use whole wheat orzo? Add a little spice? Your tips and swaps might inspire someone else!

Explore beautifully curated dinner favorites and cozy pasta nights on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new favorite comfort meals.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is the ultimate one-pan comfort food. It comes together quickly with pantry staples, is rich and creamy without being heavy, and hits every note from savory to satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family night or just want to treat yourself to a warm and filling dinner, this recipe is a dependable go-to you’ll come back to again and again.