Description
This Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet is a cozy, one-pan dinner made with tender orzo pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy skillet recipe is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor—all in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for 12–15 minutes, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until creamy and thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with Parmesan and parsley before serving.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage.
- Add spinach or kale in the final minutes for extra greens.
- Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free twist.
- For spice, add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.
- Reheat with a splash of broth to maintain creamy consistency.
