Creamy Ground Beef Orzo

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
1 medium onion
4 garlic cloves
Add the ground beef and cook for 6–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned all over.
1 pound lean ground beef
Stir in the Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and deepen the flavor.
½ tablespoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Add the orzo and stir well to combine, then pour in the tomato sauce and chicken stock. Stir again to combine, then bring to a boil.
1 cup orzo
1 cup tomato sauce
2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Pour in the half and half and stir in the grated Parmesan. Simmer for 1–2 more minutes, until everything is creamy and well combined.
1 cup half and half
⅓ cup Parmesan cheese
Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Tear in the fresh basil just before serving.
Salt and black pepper to taste
6-8 fresh basil leaves