If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful skillet meal brings together tender orzo pasta simmered in a rich tomato and beef broth, then finished with creamy heavy cream and sharp Parmesan cheese for a perfectly silky finish. It’s a cozy, comforting, and utterly satisfying dish that comes together quickly, making it a weekday dinner winner you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in building the dish’s amazing flavor and texture. From the hearty ground beef to the creamy Parmesan, every component is essential to create that perfect harmony on your plate.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Small but mighty, this pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the savory juices beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20): Provides a rich, meaty base that makes this a filling, protein-packed meal.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained): Adds vibrant color and a bright, tangy tomato flavor.
- 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium): Builds a savory, flavorful liquid foundation that the orzo cooks in.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and depth to the dish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Gives the dish a luscious, creamy texture without overpowering the beef and tomato base.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melts into the sauce perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple, essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the beef and building flavor at the start.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula so it cooks evenly. Cook until all the pink is gone and the meat is nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because a good sear adds rich flavor that carries through the entire dish.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasoning
Next, stir in your undrained diced tomatoes along with the beef broth and Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This fragrant, tangy mixture forms the flavorful broth in which our orzo will cook, absorbing all those delicious beefy notes.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
Sprinkle the orzo pasta into the skillet and stir to combine. Cover the pan partially and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 to 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If it looks a little dry before the orzo is tender, splash in some extra broth or water to keep it moist and creamy.
Step 4: Creamy Finish
Turn your heat down to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This part is the magic moment when the dish transforms into creamy perfection. Taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed to make sure it hits all the right savory notes. Once it’s luscious and cheesy, you’re ready to serve!
How to Serve Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top really elevates the dish, adding a vibrant green touch and a subtle herbal brightness that contrasts delightfully with the rich cream sauce. A little extra Parmesan on top never hurts either!
Side Dishes
This dish is savory and filling enough to stand on its own, but for extra veggies, a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli are fabulous choices. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf also pairs beautifully to soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful plate. You can also turn it into a one-pan baked creation by finishing it in the oven with a golden Parmesan crust on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy days.
Freezing
While this dish freezes well, keep in mind that the creamy texture may slightly change after thawing. Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and bring back that lovely creamy consistency. Stir often to heat evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, especially for sausage which might take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Definitely. Swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute or cooked lentils for a hearty, meat-free option. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep things fully vegetarian.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
You can, but keep in mind that orzo cooks quickly and absorbs liquid well. Small pasta shapes like couscous or small shells can work, but adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly.
What can I add to make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the tomatoes and broth or mix in a little smoked paprika for a smoky kick that pairs beautifully with the beef and creamy sauce.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Leave out the heavy cream and Parmesan or replace them with coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. You may want to add a little nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe is a true weeknight superstar that is as comforting as it is delicious. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a rich, creamy, and flavorful dinner on the table in no time. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a home-cooked hug and will quickly become a staple in your family’s rotation. Give it a try and enjoy every cozy, tasty bite!
Print
Savory Ground Beef Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This savory ground beef orzo skillet dinner combines tender orzo pasta cooked in a rich tomato-beef broth, finished with creamy heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a silky, comforting meal. Perfect for a quick and hearty Italian-inspired main course.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and stir. Partially cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 8–10 minutes. Add a splash more broth or water if the pan dries out before the orzo is fully cooked.
- Finish with cream and cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- If the orzo absorbs all the liquid before it’s tender, add a little more broth or water to prevent sticking or burning.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to better control the salt level of the dish.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color and fresh taste but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, keeping in mind the dish will be less creamy.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth to loosen the texture.
