Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet

Why make this recipe

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet is a delicious and easy dish that brings comfort to the table. It combines tender orzo pasta with seasoned ground beef, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup!

How to make Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet

Ingredients :

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions :

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and heavy cream.
4. Add the orzo pasta and bring to a simmer. Cook until the orzo is tender, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to serve Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet

Serve the Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet warm in bowls. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This dish pairs nicely with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to store Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a little extra cream or water to loosen the sauce and heat it on the stove over low heat.

Tips to make Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.
• For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes while cooking the beef.
• If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with another small pasta, but cooking time may vary.

Variation

You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the skillet for added nutrition. If you prefer a lighter version, try using ground turkey or chicken in place of beef.

FAQs

Can I freeze Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Store them in an airtight container, and they will last for up to 2 months.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add the spinach and heat it before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based milk with a thickener like cornstarch or flour.

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo Skillet

A delicious one-pan meal featuring tender orzo pasta, seasoned ground beef, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 700

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.
• 1 cup orzo pasta You can substitute with another small pasta, but cooking time may vary.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 cup heavy cream You can use half-and-half or a plant-based milk with a thickener for a lighter option.
• 2 cups fresh spinach Can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Method

 

Cooking

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and heavy cream.
4. Add the orzo pasta and bring to a simmer. Cook until the orzo is tender, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool and then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a bit of extra cream or water. Avoid excess fat by using lean beef.