Description
Craving the comfort of a cheeseburger but want something a little more cozy and satisfying? This One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet delivers all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger in a warm, cheesy pasta dish. With tender orzo pasta, seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and classic burger toppings, it’s a weeknight winner that the whole family will love.
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Ingredients
For the Skillet:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean beef)
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp yellow mustard
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1 tbsp ketchup
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1½ cups dry orzo pasta
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2½ cups beef broth
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra meltiness)
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¼ cup pickles, chopped (optional)
For Topping:
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Extra shredded cheddar
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Diced tomatoes
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Shredded lettuce
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Pickle slices
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Sesame seeds (optional, for burger flair)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add ground beef (and olive oil if using lean meat).
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Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink (about 5-6 minutes).
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Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Flavorings
5. Stir in diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
6. Add garlic, tomato paste, mustard, and ketchup.
7. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to combine and deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
8. Add dry orzo and stir to coat in the beef mixture.
9. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
10. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
11. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish
12. Turn off the heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
13. If using, fold in chopped pickles for that classic burger zing.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
14. Spoon into bowls and top with your favorite cheeseburger toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, extra cheese, and pickle slices.
15. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a playful touch.
Notes
Use Beef Broth – It adds deep, savory flavor to the orzo.
Don’t Skip the Mustard – It mimics the tanginess of a cheeseburger.
Add Cheese Off Heat – Prevents separation and ensures a creamy finish.
Stir Often – Orzo tends to stick, so give it a mix every few minutes.
Customize Toppings – Think of it like dressing a burger—make it your own!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American