There is something truly comforting and delicious about a one-pan meal that brings together hearty, savory beef and tender pasta in a luscious tomato cream sauce, brightened with fresh basil. The Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe is exactly that kind of dish—simple enough for any weeknight yet rich with flavor that makes you want to savor every bite. Imagine tender orzo soaking up a creamy tomato sauce, infused with the deep, meaty goodness of ground beef and the fragrant lift of fresh basil leaves. It’s a satisfying and colorful plate that never fails to please both family and friends.

A white speckled bowl is filled with a creamy orange sauce mixed with small pieces of brown ground meat and short, thin yellow pasta pieces. The dish is topped with scattered green herbs, giving a nice contrast to the warm colors of the sauce and meat. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some crumbs and green herb pieces around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started is easy because the ingredients for this recipe are straightforward but essential. Each one brings its own magic to the dish, whether it’s the savory depth of the ground beef, the brightness of crushed tomatoes, or the creamy perk of heavy cream, all accented by fresh basil for a vibrant finish.

1 lb ground beef: The hearty base provides rich flavor and satisfying protein.
1 small onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of aromatic warmth.
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Creates the bright, tangy foundation of the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly smooth and luscious.
1 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for richness and color.
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle hint of heat for balance.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient.
1 ½ cups orzo pasta: The tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
2 ½ cups beef broth: Provides savory depth and enough liquid to cook the orzo perfectly.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish and creamy texture.
Fresh basil leaves: The bright, herbal topping that brings freshness and color.

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Onions

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and finely diced onion to the pan. Cook them together for about 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the beef with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and the onions have softened. This foundational step builds flavor and texture, setting the stage for everything else. Then stir in the minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings

Next, stir in the tablespoon of tomato paste along with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes to really deepen the flavors. This step transforms the base, giving the sauce a richer, more concentrated tomato presence that will shine through in the final dish.

Step 3: Pour in Crushed Tomatoes and Beef Broth

Now it’s time to pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and the beef broth. Stir everything together well and bring it to a gentle simmer. This mix provides the perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and savoriness from the broth to cook the orzo and marry the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Let the orzo cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, giving it an occasional stir to prevent sticking and checking the texture. The orzo will soak up most of the liquid while becoming tender, perfectly complementing the thick tomato sauce.

Step 5: Stir in Heavy Cream and Simmer

Once the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed, stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to create that velvety, creamy tomato sauce everyone loves. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if you like.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan Cheese and Fresh Basil

To bring everything together, sprinkle the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish liberally with torn fresh basil leaves. The cheese melts into the creamy sauce, lending an irresistible savoriness, while the basil adds that unmistakable fresh herb aroma that makes this Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are the star garnish here, adding bright green pops of color and fresh aroma right before serving. A little extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil can also take the dish to the next level, adding richness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This meal pairs beautifully with a crisp, leafy green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette slices are perfect companions to scoop up every last bit of that luscious tomato cream sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic but elegant presentation, serve this dish in individual shallow bowls topped with fresh basil chiffonade and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Alternatively, try layering it in a casserole dish and finishing under the broiler with extra cheese for a bubbly golden crust that’s irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Flavors actually get better as they meld together, making it a fantastic next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. To avoid freezer burn, press out any excess air and seal tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently so the orzo heats evenly without becoming tough.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo’s small size works wonderfully with the sauce, you can swap in other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, small shells, or even tiny elbows. Just keep cooking times in mind and adjust accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian-friendly version that still captures all the comforting flavors.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely. The red pepper flakes provide a mild warmth, but you can add more for extra heat or incorporate other spices like smoked paprika or cayenne. Just remember to taste as you go!

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of butter. The sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick but will still be delicious and creamy enough to satisfy.

How do I keep the basil fresh when cooking?

Add fresh basil at the very end of cooking or as a garnish to preserve its bright flavor and vibrant green color. Cooking basil too long can make it wilt and lose its aromatic qualities.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that balances richness with fresh, comforting flavors. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. I can’t recommend it enough for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners—give it a try, and you’ll soon find it becoming one of your favorite go-to recipes too.

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe