If you are craving a comforting yet effortlessly delicious dinner, this One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe will become your new go-to favorite. Combining the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender, al dente orzo pasta, this skillet meal is packed with savory ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and just the right zing of mustard and Worcestershire sauce. What’s best is that it all comes together in one pan, saving you time and dishes while delivering a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a key role in creating a rich and flavorful dish. Every item you add, from the savory broth to the creamy cheddar cheese, adds depth, texture, or a pop of flavor that makes this skillet a standout meal.
- Olive oil: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly and adding a subtle richness.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein base that brings that unmistakable cheeseburger flavor.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and balance to the meaty beef.
- Garlic (minced): A fragrant boost that elevates the overall taste.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- Mustard: Gives that classic cheeseburger tanginess.
- Ketchup: Adds a touch of sweet acidity to round out the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami and enriches the savory profile.
- Uncooked orzo pasta: The tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the deliciousness.
- Beef broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the orzo.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a creamy, gooey finish that defines the dish.
- Cream or milk (optional): Adds extra creaminess for those who love a silkier texture.
- Chopped pickles or green onions (optional garnish): Bring a fresh, zesty contrast in every bite.
How to Make One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until beautifully browned, breaking it up as you go so every bite is tender and flavorful. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the dish from feeling greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Add Seasonings
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and let it soften for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, mustard, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients combine to create that unmistakable cheeseburger flavor in the sauce that makes this recipe shine.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo in Broth
Pour the dry orzo pasta and beef broth right into the skillet. Stir everything together well to make sure the pasta is evenly distributed and coated. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer, then cover and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the orzo cooks until tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese and Cream
Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream or milk if you’re using it. This is where the dish gets irresistibly creamy and cheesy. Let it sit off heat for a few minutes to thicken up nicely before serving.
How to Serve One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To add a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle chopped pickles or green onions on top. These garnishes introduce a crisp, tangy contrast that perfectly balances the richness of the skillet. Feel free to toss on extra shredded cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!
Side Dishes
This skillet is truly a meal on its own, but if you want to create a fuller spread, serve it alongside a simple green salad or steamed veggies. Crisp garden greens or roasted asparagus add freshness and a beautiful color contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your cheeseburger orzo skillet in mini cast iron skillets or individual ramekins. You can even spoon it onto toasted bread slices for a hearty open-faced sandwich experience that’s perfect for casual dinners or lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, making for a delicious second-day meal.
Freezing
This One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe freezes well if you want to keep portions handy for busy nights. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the skillet gently on medium-low heat on the stove or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it seems a bit dry to bring back its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work well, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Orzo is ideal for absorbing the sauce evenly.
Is ground turkey a good substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version. Just be cautious not to overcook since poultry can dry out faster.
How spicy is this One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe?
By default, it is mild and kid-friendly. If you love a little kick, adding hot sauce or chopped jalapeños can easily spice it up to your liking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can skip the cheddar cheese and cream or substitute with dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats beautifully, making it convenient for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about a dish that feels like a warm hug from your favorite cheeseburger, but with the ease and comfort of a one-pot meal. This One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe is proof you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or fun for simplicity. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a cherished recipe in your kitchen rotation—it’s truly that good!
Print
One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This One Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet is a quick and comforting dinner option combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender, perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Ground beef is browned with onions and garlic, then simmered with orzo in beef broth until tender. Finished with melted cheddar cheese and creamy milk or cream, this skillet meal is hearty and flavorful, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Skillet Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Orzo and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped pickles or green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté Aromatics and Add Seasonings: Add the finely chopped onion to the browned beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, mustard, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well to combine all flavors.
- Cook the Orzo: Pour in the uncooked orzo pasta and beef broth. Stir to combine evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream or milk (if using) until the cheese melts fully into a creamy sauce. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken the mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the skillet with chopped pickles or green onions for added flavor and texture, or sprinkle extra cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting one pot meal.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy variation.
- Drain excess fat after browning beef to reduce greasiness.
- You can use milk instead of cream for a lighter creamy texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for quick meals the next day.
