Creamy Ground Beef Orzo

Introduction & Inspiration

Sometimes you just need a warm, creamy bowl of comfort food that doesn’t take hours to make — and that’s where this Creamy Ground Beef Orzo comes in.

I created this recipe because I wanted something hearty, satisfying, and super easy to pull together after a busy day.

With tender orzo, juicy ground beef, rich tomato cream sauce, and fresh spinach all cooked in one pot, it checks every single comfort food box.

It’s creamy, cozy, and full of bold, savory flavor — the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again.

Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week.

Nostalgic Appeal

Growing up, creamy one-pot pasta dishes were always a favorite in my house.

They were the kind of meals that filled the kitchen with the most incredible smells and brought everyone running to the table.

This Creamy Ground Beef Orzo brings back all those comforting memories but with a modern, slightly elevated twist.

It has all the heartiness and warmth of a classic family dinner but feels just a little more special thanks to the creamy tomato sauce and fresh herbs.

One bite and you’re instantly wrapped in cozy, homemade goodness.

Homemade Focus

Making this dish at home means using real, fresh ingredients — no canned “cream of” soups or processed shortcuts.

You brown your own beef, sauté fresh onions and garlic, and build a creamy, flavorful sauce from scratch.

The orzo cooks right in the sauce, soaking up every drop of flavor as it softens into tender perfection.

Homemade meals like this remind me that the best comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to be made with love.

And with everything happening in one pot, clean-up is a breeze too!

Flavor Goal

The goal with this Creamy Ground Beef Orzo was to balance hearty, savory, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors perfectly.

The beef brings richness and meatiness that forms the heart of the dish.

The tomato sauce and paste add bright, tangy depth, while the heavy cream smooths everything out into a silky, luscious sauce.

Italian seasoning, dried basil, and a touch of red pepper flakes add warmth, herbaceousness, and just a little kick.

Fresh baby spinach brings a pop of color and freshness that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.

A final sprinkle of grated parmesan and fresh basil makes every bite irresistible.

It’s hearty, creamy, savory, and fresh — everything you want in a bowl.

Ingredient Insights

Every ingredient in this dish was chosen to deliver big flavor and the perfect texture.

Lean ground beef adds hearty, savory richness without making the dish greasy.

Yellow onion provides a natural sweetness that softens as it cooks.

Fresh garlic adds deep, aromatic savoriness that infuses the entire pot.

Italian seasoning and dried basil layer in classic herb flavors that feel cozy and familiar.

Crushed red pepper flakes add optional warmth and a tiny kick of spice.

Tomato paste deepens the tomato flavor, giving the sauce richness and complexity.

Orzo pasta cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up all the flavors and creating a creamy, risotto-like texture.

Tomato sauce provides the bright, tangy base for the creamy sauce.

Beef broth adds extra savory depth, making the sauce even richer.

Heavy cream smooths out the sauce and makes it deliciously creamy.

Worcestershire sauce adds a little umami punch that ties everything together.

Baby spinach wilts into the dish at the end, adding color, texture, and extra nutrients.

Parmesan cheese finishes everything off with a nutty, salty hit that makes each bite irresistible.

Essential Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to bring this cozy meal together.

A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for browning the beef and cooking everything in one place.

A sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the onion and garlic.

A wooden spoon or spatula to stir the beef and orzo as they cook.

A ladle for serving up generous, creamy scoops once it’s done.

One pot, one spoon — dinner is ready with minimal mess!

Ingredients with Measurements

For the Creamy Beef Orzo:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce (or crushed/diced tomatoes)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:
Heat a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat.

Step 2:
Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula.
Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3:
Add the finely chopped onion and cook with the beef until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent, about another 5 minutes.

Step 4:
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), tomato paste, and uncooked orzo.
Mix very well and let it cook for about 1 minute to bring out the flavors.

Step 5:
Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 6:
Stir everything together, making sure the orzo is fully submerged in the liquid.

Step 7:
Once the mixture starts bubbling, lower the heat slightly and keep the pot uncovered.

Step 8:
Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 9:
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh baby spinach and grated parmesan cheese.

Step 10:
Cover the pot and let it sit for 5 minutes to let the spinach wilt and the sauce thicken even more.

Step 11:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 12:
Serve hot, garnished with extra grated parmesan and chopped fresh basil.

Troubleshooting

If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.

If the orzo sticks to the bottom of the pot, lower the heat and stir more frequently.

If you like a creamier texture, add a little extra heavy cream at the end before serving.

Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to bring out all the amazing flavors.

Tips and Variations

Swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want a lighter version.

Use different leafy greens like arugula or kale instead of spinach for a fun twist.

Add a handful of mushrooms when sautéing the onions for extra earthiness.

Top each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil or a few red pepper flakes for extra richness and spice.

Make it even heartier by stirring in a handful of cooked peas or roasted red peppers.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this Creamy Ground Beef Orzo with a crisp green salad and some crusty garlic bread.

It also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber tomato salad.

For drinks, a glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a light lager would complement the rich, creamy flavors perfectly.

Perfect for cozy dinners, easy meal prep, or anytime you need serious comfort food fast.

Nutritional Information

This dish is hearty, protein-packed, and full of real ingredients.

The beef and spinach provide plenty of nutrients, while the orzo and sauce offer creamy, satisfying comfort.

Using fresh parmesan and cream keeps the flavor luxurious without feeling heavy.

A balanced, cozy meal that’s totally worth every single bite.

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Recipe Summary and Q&A

This Creamy Ground Beef Orzo is rich, savory, and incredibly comforting — the ultimate one-pot pasta dinner for busy nights.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes!
It reheats beautifully. Just add a splash of cream or broth when warming up.

Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
You can, but cooking time may vary.
Stick with small shapes like ditalini or small shells for best results.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Creamy, cozy, satisfying — this is pure comfort food at its best!