We all have those evenings where the clock is somehow running twice as fast and dinner just needs to happen, fast. This creamy ground beef and orzo skillet is my go-to when I need something warm, filling, and loved by everyone at the table. And hey, we’re only using one pot, so that’s a big win when you’re also the designated dish-doer. It’s the kind of meal where orzo soaks up all that beefy flavor and turns into this cozy, creamy wonder. Whether you’re into Ground Beef One Pot Meals, Quick Ground Beef Recipes For Dinner, or even One Pan Ground Beef Recipes, this one’s got your name all over it. It’s also perfect if you’re a fan of One Pot Orzo Recipes or dabbling in Orzo One Pot Recipes like I am. You’ll only need pantry basics and about 30 minutes. If you’ve got kids, they’ll ask for seconds. If you’re solo, leftovers = lunch jackpot. Let’s not overthink dinner tonight. Let’s keep it simple, real, and satisfying—just how weeknights should be.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe
3) Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet
4) How to Make Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet
5) Tips for Making Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet
6) Making Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet
8) Try these One Pot meals next!
9) Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

A quick and hearty one pot dinner that takes only 35 minutes start to finish
Family-friendly and perfect for leftovers or weekly meal prep
Easy to customize with veggies or your favorite ground meat
Pairs creamy cheddar with the savory flavor of beef and orzo

2) Easy Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Recipe

This one pot ground beef recipe is one I keep coming back to when I need comfort food that doesn’t leave my kitchen looking like a tornado hit it. Just one pan, a few pantry staples, and thirty-five minutes. Sound like your kind of night? Same here.

Now, orzo is a sneaky little pasta that cooks up creamy without much effort. When you mix it with savory beef, cheddar, and a touch of seasoning, you’ve got a one pot ground beef recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the sort of dish that earns a permanent spot in the dinner rotation—no guilt, no fuss.

And since we’re sticking to one pot ground beef recipes, clean-up is a breeze. This is one of those Ground Beef One Pot Meals that doesn’t try too hard to be fancy but ends up stealing the show anyway. If you love One Pan Ground Beef Recipes, this one’s calling your name.

3) Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet

1 lb ground beef: You want it nicely browned and a little crispy around the edges. Flavor lives in those browned bits.

1 small onion, diced: Nothing fancy—just good, honest onion. Adds depth and a little sweetness.

2 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t skip this. Garlic brings the whole dish to life. Trust me, you’ll notice if it’s missing.

1 tsp salt: Just enough to bring out the beef’s natural flavor. Taste as you go.

½ tsp black pepper: A little kick to balance out the richness. Use freshly ground if you can.

1 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a background hum of herbs without taking over. You could sub in dried oregano or thyme.

2 cups beef broth: This soaks into the orzo and builds a rich base for everything else. Low sodium works fine.

1½ cups milk: Helps make everything creamy without needing a roux. I’ve used both whole and 2 percent with good results.

1½ cups dry orzo: Small but mighty. Orzo thickens as it cooks and carries flavor beautifully. A real one pot MVP.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the mix and gives that luscious finish. Go sharp if you like bold flavor.

Fresh parsley (optional): Totally optional, but adds color and a hint of brightness if you’re feeling fancy.

4) How to Make Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Start with a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off most of the grease, but leave a little for flavor.

Step 2: Toss in the diced onion. Stir and let it soften for about 2 minutes. Then add garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let those cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in the beef broth and milk, then stir in the dry orzo. Give everything a good mix so the orzo doesn’t clump.

Step 4: Bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir now and then to keep things smooth.

Step 5: When the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, take the pan off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar until creamy.

Step 6: Garnish with parsley if you’re feeling it. Scoop it into bowls and enjoy warm. It tastes like effort—but only took one pot and a little time.

5) Tips for Making Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet

Keep your orzo moving. It loves to stick if left alone, so give it a stir once or twice during simmering. That simple act will keep your one pot ground beef recipes smooth, not starchy.

If you’re using a nonstick skillet, you may not get the crispy edges on the beef. Cast iron helps with that if you’re into more texture. Either way, get the beef nice and browned first.

You can mix in extras. Spinach wilts down beautifully in the last few minutes. A handful of frozen peas, mushrooms, or even leftover roasted veggies are welcome here. This dish has the bones to hold up a little riffing.

6) Making Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet Ahead of Time

Want to prep this ahead? You’re in good company. This dish holds well for a few days and tastes even richer on day two. Cook as usual, then cool it down and store it in the fridge.

If you’re packing it for lunch, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring the creaminess back to life.

This is one of those Quick Ground Beef Recipes For Dinner that works equally well when made in advance. That’s a bonus for busy nights or lazy afternoons.

7) Storing Leftover Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet

Leftovers? Yes, please. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors get cozy over time, so don’t be surprised if you like it better the next day.

Reheat on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of milk or water and stir often until warm. The cheese will melt again, and the orzo will perk up nicely.

This is also a great way to stretch meals. If you love Orzo One Pot Recipes or One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipes, keep this on repeat and tweak it with what you’ve got on hand.

8) Try these One Pot meals next!

9) Creamy Ground Beef and Orzo Skillet