One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving that classic cheeseburger flavor combined with the comfort of a pasta skillet, the One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet is about to become your new go-to dinner. This dish masterfully melds savory ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and gooey cheddar cheese all cooked together in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal fuss. It’s like a cheeseburger and your favorite pasta had a deliciously cozy baby, delivering layers of texture and that perfect tangy bite from ketchup and mustard. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just treating yourself, this recipe hits all the right notes with simple, everyday ingredients that turn into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with the One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet means gathering a handful of ingredients that are easy to find but pack a flavorful punch. Each one plays a vital role—from the rich beef that forms the hearty base, to the quick-cooking orzo that absorbs all those incredible flavors. Together, they create the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and tangy.

• 1 lb ground beef: Choose 80/20 for a juicy, flavorful foundation that browns beautifully.
• 1 cup orzo: This tiny pasta cooks fast and soaks up the savory broth for delicious bite-sized morsels.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds melty richness that ties the dish together.
• 2 cups beef broth: Use a good-quality broth to infuse the orzo and beef with deep, savory flavor.
• 1/2 cup ketchup: Brings that familiar tang and sweetness reminiscent of your favorite burger sauce.
• 1/4 cup mustard: Adds a subtle zing and depth to brighten up the whole skillet.
• Pickles, for garnish: A crunchy, tangy topping that completes the cheeseburger vibe perfectly.

How to Make One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding your ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as you go. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain off any excess fat—this keeps the dish from getting greasy, while still preserving that hearty flavor we all love in a cheeseburger.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Liquid Ingredients

Next, stir in the orzo pasta along with the beef broth, ketchup, and mustard. This combination creates the flavorful cooking liquid that will allow the orzo to absorb all the savory, tangy goodness. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the mixture has thickened slightly.

Step 3: Stir in the Cheese

Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the skillet becomes lusciously creamy. This step transforms the dish into that irresistible, cheesy comfort food we’re all here for.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finally, top your skillet creation with sliced pickles for that signature cheeseburger crunch and tang. Grab a plate and dig in right away, because this is best enjoyed warm and fresh!

How to Serve One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet

Garnishes

Pickles are the star garnish here—a tangy, crisp bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy orzo. Feel free to add fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and brightness, or even a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a little kick to your cheeseburger flavors.

Side Dishes

Since the One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet is quite filling on its own, simple sides work best. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich skillet perfectly, or some steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans can add a healthy, fresh balance to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Put a fun twist on this dish by serving individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for a cozy, rustic vibe. Another great idea is to scoop it onto burger buns and open-face it for an inside-out cheeseburger sandwich experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As orzo tends to soak up liquid over time, it might firm up a bit, but that’s easy to fix when reheating.

Freezing

The One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet freezes well in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing, and leave some room at the top for expansion.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the texture and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to keep the cheese creamy and prevent sticking. It’s almost as good as fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for this skillet?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic and melts beautifully, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a gooey stretch, pepper jack for some spice, or even Swiss for a nuttier flavor profile.

Is orzo the only pasta that works here?

Orzo is ideal because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, but small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, or mini shells could work if you’re in a pinch. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian take, swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground crumbles or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a delicious meat-free version.

What’s the best type of mustard to use?

A classic yellow mustard works perfectly here for its mild zing, but feel free to try Dijon or spicy brown mustard if you want to add a little extra depth and heat.

How spicy is this dish?

The One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet is mild on its own, with the ketchup and mustard providing tang and subtle heat. You can easily spice it up with some chili flakes or hot sauce according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, comforting meal that combines all the best parts of a cheeseburger with the cozy appeal of one-pot pasta, the One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet is an absolute winner. It’s straightforward, flavorful, and sure to become a household favorite that you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try—you’re in for a deliciously satisfying treat!

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