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
Scale
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.
