Description
A creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta dish that captures the flavor of a classic cheeseburger in a single skillet. Ready in 30 minutes, this comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio preferred)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of paprika
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon.
- Add diced onion to the beef and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add dry orzo to the skillet and stir with beef and onions for 2 minutes to toast the pasta.
- Pour in beef broth, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Stir to combine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most broth is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and half of the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Remove from heat. Stir in remaining cheese and chopped pickles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese to ensure a smooth sauce, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents. Toast the orzo before adding liquid to prevent mushiness. Add cheese off the heat or on low to prevent seizing. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days; add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 35
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 25
Keywords: cheeseburger orzo, one skillet dinner, easy weeknight meals, comfort food, ground beef recipes, creamy pasta, family friendly dinner