Dinner

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe

Name: Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp tomato paste; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 ½ cups orzo pasta; 2 ½ cups beef broth; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

ByJulian Dempsey January 25, 2026January 25, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil is a comforting, flavorful one-pan meal that comes together in just 35 minutes. Creamy and rich with a hint of spice, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

The image shows a bowl filled with a creamy pasta dish that has about three visible layers. The base layer consists of creamy orange sauce mixed with small, light yellow pasta pieces shaped like short grains. On top, there are small chunks of browned ground meat spread evenly across the dish. This is garnished with a sprinkling of shredded white cheese and small bright green herb leaves mostly gathered in the center. The bowl is white with small brown speckles. The background has a white marbled texture with some green herb leaves and bits of grated cheese scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp tomato paste
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 ½ cups orzo pasta
2 ½ cups beef broth
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the beef, until browned and the onion has softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Stir in the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Add chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
If you like it spicier, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Swap beef broth with vegetable broth for a milder flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

A white speckled bowl holds a creamy orange sauce mixed with small pieces of browned ground meat and short rice-shaped pasta. The sauce looks thick and smooth, covering the pasta evenly. On top, there is a sprinkle of grated cheese and small green parsley leaves scattered around for garnish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with bits of parsley and grated cheese around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous, acini di pepe, or small shells can be used. Just adjust cooking time as needed since different pastas vary in size and texture.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

While you can freeze the dish, the cream sauce might separate slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze before adding the cream and Parmesan, then stir them in fresh after reheating.