Easy, one-pan, elevated weeknight dinner. There’s something so satisfying about a dinner that feels special but comes together with minimal effort — and this Creamy Ground Beef & Rosso Pesto Orzo checks every box. It’s cozy, flavorful, and made entirely in one pan, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something that tastes a little elevated.
This dish was inspired by my love of comforting pasta dinners that don’t skimp on flavor. The Rosso Pesto (I use the one from Aldi) brings a deep, tomatoey richness that pairs beautifully with creamy orzo and tender ground beef. A handful of spinach adds color and freshness, and melty mozzarella ties it all together into the dreamiest bite.
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground beef
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 package of orzo
• 3–4 tablespoons Rosso Pesto (from Aldi)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk or cream
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 handfuls of spinach
Instructions
1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic. Stir to combine.
2. Cook the orzo: Add in the orzo and Rosso Pesto, stirring to coat the orzo. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes — stirring occasionally — until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
3. Finish it off: Stir in milk or cream, mozzarella, and spinach. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts.
Why You'll Love It
• One-pan simplicity: Less cleanup, more flavor.
• Family-friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and comforting — even the kids will love it.
• Weeknight-worthy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
Hosting Tip:
Serve this in a pretty ceramic baking dish with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine. It’s unfussy, cozy, and perfect for casual dinner guests or a quiet night in.
Save this one for your next meal plan — it’s an instant favorite that proves easy can still feel special.
Creamy Ground Beef & Rosso Pesto Orzo — An Easy, One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt, pepper, italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 package of orzo
- 3-4 tbsp Rosso Pesto from Aldi
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 handfuls of spinach
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic. Stir to combine.
- Cook the orzo: Add in the orzo and Rosso Pesto, stirring to coat the orzo. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes — stirring occasionally — until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish it off: Stir in milk or cream, mozzarella, and spinach. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts.
