Description

Creamy, savory, and full of comforting flavors, this one-skillet Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce is an easy weeknight dinner that delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes. Every bite is packed with seasoned beef, tender orzo, and a velvety tomato cream sauce finished with fresh spinach.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef

2 tablespoons tomato paste

3 cups beef broth

1 cup orzo pasta

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 cups fresh spinach

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

2. Add ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink.

3. Stir in the tomato paste. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the orzo and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Once orzo is nearly tender, reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Let it simmer gently until thickened and orzo is fully cooked.

6. Fold in the spinach and allow it to wilt, about 1–2 minutes.

7. Optional: Top with Parmesan cheese before serving. Serve hot in bowls.

Notes

Use a wide, deep skillet to avoid overcooking orzo and ensure even simmering.

For extra creaminess, add a spoonful of cream cheese or more Parmesan during the final stir.

Stir regularly while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pan
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 740mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: ground beef orzo, tomato cream sauce, one pan pasta