One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo

Name: One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 red bell pepper (chopped); 2 cups orzo (uncooked); 2 cups taco skillet sauce; 2½ cups chicken broth (low sodium); 1 cup shredded cheese (Mozzarella and Cheddar blend); toppings: tomatoes, olives, green onions, fresh cilantro

Posted on January 3, 2026

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One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion! This dish combines the heartiness of orzo pasta with the vibrant flavors of taco seasoning and plenty of gooey cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a big bowl of cheesy goodness that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.
Customizable Toppings: Top with your favorite ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and cilantro for a personal touch.
Cheesy Goodness: A generous amount of cheese makes every bite creamy and satisfying.
Family-Friendly: This meal appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essentials for making One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo:

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat and combining all ingredients seamlessly.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups: Ensures you get the right amount of ingredients for perfect results.
Measuring spoons: Helps in accurately measuring spices and sauces.

Ingredients

This One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo is super cheesy and delicious! One pot of quick and feel-good comfort food, ready in just 30 minutes. This Cheesy Taco Orzo is topped with lots of cheese, and your favorite taco toppings. Enjoy a big bowl of cheesy gooey goodness!

For the Base

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 red bell pepper (chopped)
2 cups orzo (uncooked)
2 cups taco skillet sauce
2½ cups chicken broth (low sodium)

Seasonings

½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha)

For Topping

1 cup cheese (shredded, I used a blend of Mozzarella and Cheddar)
tomatoes (chopped)
olives (chopped)
green onions (chopped)
fresh cilantro (chopped)

How to Make One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo

Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Veggies

Add the ground beef to a large skillet and brown it over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as you go along.
* Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet; let it cook for about a minute.
* Next, add the chopped bell pepper.
* Stir everything together and cook for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the pepper is tender.

Step 2: Incorporate the Orzo

Add the dry orzo to the skillet and turn the heat down to medium low.
* Stir in the taco skillet sauce and chicken broth.
* Season with salt and pepper then add the hot sauce.
* Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes or until all of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Stir in the cheese and remove from heat.
* Alternatively, you can top it with cheese and cover the skillet with a lid until the cheese melts.
* Top with tomatoes, olives, green onions, and fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo!

How to Serve One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo

One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Use Taco Toppings

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spice.
Guacamole: Fresh guacamole provides a rich flavor and enhances the overall taste.
Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over your orzo gives it a zesty kick.

Add Extra Veggies

Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and complements the taco flavors.
Fresh Salsa: Bright and tangy salsa brings freshness and additional flavor.

Pair with Crunchy Elements

Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and enjoyment.
Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create fun, low-carb wraps with the orzo.

How to Perfect One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo

To make your One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo even better, consider these handy tips. They will ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture.

Bold seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices and add more seasoning for a bolder taste.
Mix cheeses: Combine different cheese types for depth; try pepper jack for a bit of heat!
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor; opt for ripe tomatoes and crisp peppers.
Cook the orzo correctly: Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even absorption of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo

Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its cheesy, savory goodness.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, cilantro, and lime for a refreshing side.
Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with olive oil and lemon make for a light accompaniment.
Spicy Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and enhance the taco theme.
Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with fresh salsa are perfect for snacking on the side.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrients.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer an additional layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a bland flavor. Always ensure the meat is browned and cooked through for the best taste.
Ignoring Liquid Measurements: Using too much or too little liquid can change the texture of your dish. Stick to the recommended amounts of chicken broth and taco sauce for perfect results.
Overcooking the Orzo: Cooking orzo for too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and cook until just tender, as it will continue to absorb liquid even after removing from heat.
Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to season during cooking can result in a lackluster dish. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and hot sauce according to your preferences.
Forgetting Toppings: Skipping toppings means missing out on added flavor and texture. Don’t forget to garnish your dish with fresh tomatoes, olives, green onions, and cilantro.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Make sure to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Label containers with date for future reference.

Reheating One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo so special?

One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo combines cheesy goodness with taco flavors in a quick, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I customize my One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo?

Absolutely! You can add beans, corn, or switch up your protein choice based on what you have on hand.

How do I make One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo spicy?

To increase the spice level, add more hot sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños during cooking.

What toppings should I use for One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo?

Consider using fresh tomatoes, olives, chopped green onions, and cilantro for added flavor and freshness.

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo is not only quick and easy but also packs a delicious punch that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins and toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be delighted by its cheesy goodness!