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One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet | Easy 30-Minute Comfort Food

Craving all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger but don’t want the hassle of grilling, toasting buns, and prepping toppings? Enter the One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet: a quick, creamy, and hearty dish that brings the essence of a cheeseburger into a one-pan pasta meal. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food. The orzo soaks up all the savory flavors as it cooks directly in the skillet, while onions, garlic, and broth add depth. The result? A cheesy, beefy, one-pot wonder that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a weeknight lifesaver: filling, kid-approved, and made with simple pantry staples. You can even customize it with burger-inspired toppings like pickles, tomatoes, or ketchup drizzle for fun.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken/turkey as an alternative
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups beef broth or chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter version
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup optional, for a true cheeseburger flavor
  • 2 tablespoons pickles or pickle relish optional, for topping
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Grater (for fresh cheddar, if not pre-shredded)

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Beef
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned (about 6–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Add Aromatics & Seasoning
  1. Stir in onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add garlic, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
  1. Stir in the orzo and pour in beef broth.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
Step 4: Make It Cheesy
  1. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar until creamy and smooth.
  2. Add ketchup (optional) for that classic cheeseburger tang.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
  1. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  2. Sprinkle with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or green onions.
  3. Top with chopped pickles or relish for a true cheeseburger finish.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
🥄 Variations
Bacon Cheeseburger Orzo: Add cooked turkey bacon or beef bacon crumbles before serving.
Spicy Kick: Stir in chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.
Veggie Boost: Add diced tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers while cooking the orzo.
Different Cheese: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra melt.
Double Cheeseburger: Top with extra cheese just before serving and let it melt over the skillet.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use another protein instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken or turkey works well.
2. Does orzo cook the same as rice?
Not exactly—it cooks faster. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free orzo pasta.
4. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar gives the most classic cheeseburger taste.
5. Can I add ketchup and mustard?
Yes! A drizzle of mustard gives it even more burger flavor.
6. Will this dish thicken as it cools?
Yes, the orzo absorbs liquid. Add broth or cream when reheating.
7. Can I prep this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can store leftovers for 3 days.
8. Can I bake this after cooking?
Yes, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook in two batches.
10. What can I serve with it?
A side salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.
🏁 Conclusion
This One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet brings the flavor of your favorite cheeseburger into a cozy pasta dish—without the fuss of buns or grills. With creamy orzo, savory beef, and plenty of melted cheddar, it’s a meal that satisfies comfort food cravings in just 30 minutes.
The best part? Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup as easy as cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you just want something indulgent yet simple. One bite, and you’ll agree: cheeseburgers and orzo are a match made in comfort food heaven.