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Homemade Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce photo

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

A comforting one-pot meal of seasoned ground beef and orzo simmered in a creamy tomato sauce with Parmesan and spinach.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 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
  • 14 ounce canned tomato sauce (1 can)
  • 3/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or large soup pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • grater (for Parmesan)

Method
 

  1. Heat a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and let it brown without stirring for 5–6 minutes to develop color, then break it up slightly.
  2. Add the chopped onion and continue cooking, stirring and breaking the beef into small pieces, until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Spoon out excess fat if there is a lot.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning, then add the orzo and cook for about 1 minute to toast slightly.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat if needed so the mixture bubbles gently.
  5. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently so the orzo doesn't stick, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat, stir in the grated Parmesan and the baby spinach until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Serves 4–6 depending on portion size.
  • Tomato sauce in North America is similar to passata in the U.K. and Australia.
  • Liquid amounts were tested but may vary by pot and stove; add more broth or cream if needed.
  • If the dish seems too thin, let it sit a few minutes to thicken as the orzo absorbs liquid.