Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Ground Beef Orzo is everything you want in a quick dinner—rich, flavorful, and filling. The combination of ground beef and orzo creates a satisfying base, while the creamy sauce ties everything together with smooth, velvety texture. The dish is comforting and easy to prepare in one pot, which means fewer dishes to clean up afterward. It’s versatile too—add your favorite veggies, spice it up with some hot sauce, or customize it to suit your family’s preferences. It’s a great way to elevate a simple pasta dish into something special.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup orzo pasta
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Add the orzo pasta and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce becomes creamy and thickens slightly.
Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Options: Swap out Parmesan for other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes, like macaroni or small shells. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of broth or cream to bring it back to the right consistency.

3. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

To make it lighter, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef, and swap out the heavy cream for a lighter cream or milk.

4. Can I freeze Creamy Ground Beef Orzo?

Yes, you can freeze the dish after it has cooled. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

5. Can I add more cheese?

Definitely! If you love cheese, you can add more Parmesan or sprinkle some mozzarella or cheddar on top for extra creaminess.

6. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, this recipe can be made with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but still work well with the creamy sauce.

7. Can I use a non-dairy alternative for the cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, almond milk, or another non-dairy milk, though the flavor may change slightly.

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, try adding red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or hot sauce. You can adjust the level of spiciness to your preference.

9. Can I make this a one-pot dish?

Yes! The recipe is already designed to be made in one skillet or pan, which makes cleanup much easier. Just be sure your pan is large enough to hold the beef, orzo, and broth.

10. What should I serve with Creamy Ground Beef Orzo?

This dish is filling on its own, but it pairs nicely with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo is the perfect comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for yourself, this dish delivers on taste and convenience. With a rich, creamy sauce and tender pasta, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Customize it with your preferred vegetables or cheese, and enjoy this hearty, satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!