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Ground Beef Orzo Recipe – Easy Tomato Cream Sauce Dinner Kids Love

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This cozy ground beef orzo recipe features tender orzo pasta simmered in a creamy tomato sauce with hearty ground beef. It’s a quick, family-friendly dinner that’s comforting, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, plus more for serving)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until mostly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed, leaving a little for flavor.
  2. Push beef to one side of the skillet. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring until fragrant.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour in crushed tomatoes and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Add broth and stir well.
  4. Stir in uncooked orzo. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring every couple of minutes. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until orzo is tender and sauce is thickened. Add extra broth or water as needed if sauce gets too thick.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese. Continue stirring until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. Stir in Parmesan cheese if using. Taste and season with salt and black pepper.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

Notes

Stir orzo frequently to prevent sticking. Use room temperature dairy for a smooth sauce. Add extra broth when reheating leftovers, as orzo absorbs liquid. For gluten-free, use GF orzo or rice. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese. Add veggies like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef orzo, tomato cream sauce, skillet dinner, easy pasta, kid friendly, comfort food, weeknight dinner, one pan meal

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