Description
This Creamy Tomato Orzo with Ground Beef is the perfect weeknight dinner solution! With tender orzo pasta simmered in a luscious tomato cream sauce and loaded with flavorful ground beef, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. The addition of fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese adds a touch of elegance and freshness, making it as nutritious as it is delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder requires minimal effort and cleanup, making it ideal for busy evenings. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish promises hearty flavors and creamy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 3/4 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up slightly with a spoon, and let it cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the onion, breaking up the beef into small pieces. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. If needed, drain excess fat.
- Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and orzo. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Allow the mixture to gently bubble over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the orzo is cooked through.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan and spinach. Cover for 3-5 minutes to let the mixture thicken.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes