I love this Creamy Tomato Sauce Ground Beef Orzo because it comes together fast and tastes like a warm hug. I make it when I want a simple dinner that still feels a little special, and it fills the house with a lovely tomato scent.
My Dad James asked for seconds the first night I made this, and he still tells me it is one of his favorites.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
My Trusted Kitchen Tools
I keep things simple. You need:
- Large skillet with lid
- Medium pot for boiling orzo
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoon
Bringing It All Together
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is soft.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, then drain any extra fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Meanwhile cook the orzo in salted water according to the package and drain.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper and mix well.
- Serve warm with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if you like.
Making It Your Own (Swaps & Ideas)
You can switch the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. For a different flavor try my chicken pillows with creamy parmesan sauce to see how herbs and cheese change the feel. Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more greens and color.
How We Love to Serve It
We like a crisp green salad and crusty bread on the side. A squeeze of lemon on the salad brightens the meal. I let everyone add extra Parmesan at the table.
A Few Tips For Success
Cook the orzo just until it is al dente so it does not get mushy in the sauce. If you want a richer sauce, peek at this another creamy pot pie orzo recipe for ideas on thickening and seasoning. Taste as you go and add salt last so you do not over-salt.
Saving Some For Later
Cool leftovers before you chill them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. For the freezer, place cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
From My Kitchen to Yours
I hope this recipe saves you a busy night and makes your family smile. I make it when I want easy comfort food that still feels like dinner.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I make Creamy Tomato Sauce Ground Beef Orzo ahead?
Yes. You can cook everything and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove and add a little cream or water if the sauce sticks.
Is Creamy Tomato Sauce Ground Beef Orzo freezer friendly?
It freezes well. Cool the dish, portion it, and freeze in airtight containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use ground turkey in Creamy Tomato Sauce Ground Beef Orzo?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works fine and gives a lighter taste. Brown it the same way and adjust salt and herbs to your taste.
Print
Creamy Tomato Sauce Ground Beef Orzo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and simple dinner option that combines orzo pasta with ground beef and a rich creamy tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is soft.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, then drain any extra fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the orzo in salted water according to the package instructions and drain.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper and mix well.
- Serve warm with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Cook the orzo just until al dente to avoid mushiness in the sauce. Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: comfort food, creamy sauce, beef recipe, quick dinner