One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet
If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger to your dinner table, look no further than this One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet. This dish combines the hearty goodness of ground beef, the delightful texture of orzo pasta, and rich, cheesy flavors—all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
A Personal Story Behind My One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy hearty meals that filled our bellies and our hearts. One of my fondest memories is of my dad whipping up a quick meal after work, often involving ground beef and whatever pasta we had on hand. This One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet is inspired by those cherished moments, combining ease and nostalgia into a delicious dish that is perfect for all ages, especially for our beloved seniors.
What Makes This One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out not just for its delightful taste but also for its simplicity. It’s a one-pot wonder that requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The combination of beef broth, ketchup, and mustard brings a tangy twist, reminiscent of your favorite cheeseburger toppings, while the orzo absorbs all the delicious juices. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
The Full One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 4 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 ½ cups orzo
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Mince the garlic, dice the onion, and chop the parsley.
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine. Then, sprinkle in black pepper and smoked paprika for an added flavor boost. Deglaze the skillet with ½ cup of beef broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.
- Next, add the ground beef, breaking it into pieces. Cook for about 3 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Stir in ketchup and mustard, mixing thoroughly.
- Add the orzo to the skillet, then pour in the remaining beef broth. Stir well and bring to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the orzo is al dente and the broth has evaporated. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, adding more broth if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Finally, stir in the chopped parsley and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with pickles and chopped onion for that classic cheeseburger experience. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet
This dish is incredibly versatile! Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the skillet. You can also customize your One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet by adding your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, hot sauce, or fresh avocado slices. For a healthier twist, swap out half of the ground beef for finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini. The options are endless, making it a family-friendly meal that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While orzo is the star of this recipe, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even elbow macaroni if you prefer.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What pairings go well with this dish?
This skillet pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. You can also serve it with pickles or coleslaw for that extra crunch!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.
One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet
Equipment
- large nonstick skillet For cooking the entire dish in one pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 unit onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2.5 cups beef broth
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 4 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1.5 cups orzo
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Mince the garlic, dice the onion, and chop the parsley.
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine. Then, sprinkle in black pepper and smoked paprika for an added flavor boost. Deglaze the skillet with ½ cup of beef broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.
- Next, add the ground beef, breaking it into pieces. Cook for about 3 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Stir in ketchup and mustard, mixing thoroughly.
- Add the orzo to the skillet, then pour in the remaining beef broth. Stir well and bring to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the orzo is al dente and the broth has evaporated. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, adding more broth if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Finally, stir in the chopped parsley and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with pickles and chopped onion for that classic cheeseburger experience. Enjoy your delicious meal!