A one-pot meal with tender orzo, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato cream sauce. Comforting, easy, and perfect for weeknights.
1 lb ground beef (85–90% lean)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 ½ cups uncooked orzo
2 ½ cups beef broth (plus more as needed)
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef. Cook until browned, 5–7 minutes. Drain if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Stir in tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
Add orzo and broth. Stir well. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, stir in cream and Parmesan. Adjust seasoning.
Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil if desired.