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A close-up of a bowl filled with creamy orzo pasta mixed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and topped with diced fresh tomatoes and chopped green onions.

Creamy Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet

A rich, cheesy, one-pan skillet meal that delivers all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger mixed with tender, creamy orzo.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheeseburger Orzo
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pickles optional
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  2. Add onion and garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, mixing until well combined.
  4. Add the orzo and stir to coat it with the beef mixture.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  7. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in chopped pickles if using.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For a tangier cheeseburger flavor, add a teaspoon of mustard along with the tomato paste.