Ground Beef Orzo

Let’s be real. Some nights, you need a dinner that feels like a warm hug without requiring a PhD in culinary arts. Enter this Easy Ground Beef Orzo. This one-skillet wonder is the hero of busy weeknights, combining the comfort of a hearty pasta dish with the “get-it-on-the-table-fast” pace we all crave. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy—even the picky eaters—and leaves you with just one pan to wash. I promise, this creamy, savory dish is about to become a regular in your rotation.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Orzo

This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s designed to make your life easier. Here’s why it’s a total win:

• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time to relax. Everything comes together in a single skillet.
• Family-Friendly: With its familiar flavors and creamy texture, this is a surefire hit with both kids and adults.
• Quick & Easy: From stovetop to table in about 30 minutes. It’s a lifesaver on those chaotic evenings.
• Incredibly Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, use a different protein, or adjust the spices to make it your own.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo

Here’s what you’ll need to create this simple yet satisfying meal. I bet you have most of this already :

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo

Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and delicious result every time.

1. Brown the Beef: In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking for one more minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, uncooked orzo, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Create the Cream Sauce: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the mozzarella cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and luxurious.
6. Broil (Optional): If you’d like a bubbly, golden top, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the orzo and place the skillet under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch it closely!
7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. It’s heavenly on its own or with a simple side.

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy! Just a trusty large, oven-safe skillet (like a cast-iron or stainless-steel pan) is the key player here. A wooden spoon for stirring and a measuring cup round out your tools.

Handy Tips & Tasty Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it work for you:

• Beef Swap: Ground turkey or Italian sausage are fantastic substitutes for the ground beef.
• Veggie Boost: Sneak in some diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms with the onion for an extra dose of veggies.
• Creaminess Control: If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half will work in a pinch, though the sauce will be a bit less rich.
• Leftover Love: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

This dish actually became a family staple after a particularly frantic Tuesday when my energy was low but my hunger was high. It was a total success, and I’ve been tweaking it ever since!

What to Serve With Your Creamy Orzo

This ground beef orzo is a complete meal in a bowl, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast. A slice of crusty garlic bread is also non-negotiable for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

A Note on Nutrition

This information is an estimate per serving. Please note that it can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Calories: 485kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 25g

So there you have it! A comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy Ground Beef Orzo that’s ready to rescue your weeknight dinner routine. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and satisfaction. If you’re looking for another simple skillet meal, you have to try this One-Pan Beef Skillet. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this ground beef orzo?

You can, but with a small caveat. Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate a bit when thawed. For best results, freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or cream to bring it back to life.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells would work well. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the pasta you choose, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid or cooking time. For more pasta inspiration, check out this guide on how to cook pasta perfectly.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This is a great make-ahead meal! Assemble the entire dish, but hold off on adding the cream and cheese. Let it cool, then store it covered in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready, reheat it on the stove, stir in the cream and cheese, and simmer until heated through and creamy.

My sauce seems too thick. What should I do?

No worries! Orzo is a thirsty pasta. Simply stir in a splash of additional beef broth or warm water until it reaches your desired consistency. It’s an easy fix.