Name: Creamy Ground Beef Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 1/2 pounds ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 1/2 cups tomato passata (or tomato sauce); 4 1/2 cups beef broth, plus more as needed; 1 (16-ounce) package orzo; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Chopped chives, for serving

Why You’ll Love Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. The orzo absorbs the flavorful broth as it cooks, creating a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with seasoned ground beef and sharp cheddar cheese. Plus, everything comes together in a single pan, making cleanup quick and easy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Ground beef
Medium onion, diced
Garlic cloves, minced
Salt
Black pepper
Smoked paprika
Tomato paste
Tomato passata or tomato sauce
Beef broth
Orzo pasta
Heavy cream
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Chopped chives, for serving

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned and mostly cooked through.
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until slightly darkened and aromatic.
Pour in the tomato passata and beef broth. Stir in the orzo and mix well to distribute it evenly throughout the liquid.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Add extra broth if needed.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped chives and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Try using ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile. Add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Swap the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Parmesan. For a spicy version, stir in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because orzo continues to absorb liquid as it sits, the dish may thicken during storage.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth, milk, or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through.

You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but cooking times may vary. Small pasta shapes such as ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni work best.

What is orzo?

Orzo is a small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and creates a creamy texture when simmered in broth.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add a little extra liquid when reheating to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes. Half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative can be used, though the final dish may be slightly less rich.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan are also excellent choices.

How do I keep the orzo from sticking?

Stir the mixture frequently while it simmers and ensure there is enough liquid in the pan throughout the cooking process.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Spinach, peas, mushrooms, broccoli, and bell peppers all pair well with the creamy beef and orzo.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it is mild. If you prefer some heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes. Ground turkey is a great substitute and creates a lighter version of the dish.

Why is my orzo too thick?

Orzo absorbs liquid quickly. Simply stir in additional broth, milk, or cream until the desired consistency is reached.

Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender orzo, rich tomato flavor, and melted cheddar cheese, this one-pan meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this creamy pasta dish is sure to become a regular favorite.