Introduction

Cheeseburger Orzo is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. By combining tender orzo pasta with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar, and traditional cheeseburger toppings, this dish offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup pickles, chopped
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Introduce the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 5: Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth, mixing well to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Step 6: Add the cooked orzo pasta to the pot, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pickles, ketchup, and mustard. Stir until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust any flavors as needed.
Step 8: Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 9: Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley on top.

Tips & Variations

For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey without compromising flavor.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder for a subtle smoky kick.
Swap cheddar for your favorite cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
If you like it saucier, increase the beef broth by 1/4 cup for a creamier texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells work well. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta’s instructions.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cheeseburger Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 89 reviews

Cheeseburger Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender orzo pasta with savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and classic cheeseburger condiments and toppings. This hearty recipe blends the tastes of a cheeseburger into a warm, satisfying pasta meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Author: Kai
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo Pasta

1 cup orzo pasta

Meat and Aromatics

1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauces and Liquids

1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth

Cheese and Condiments

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup pickles, chopped
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard

Seasoning and Garnish

Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Onions: In the same pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef: Introduce the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Combine Flavorings: Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth, mixing well to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Add Orzo and Mix-ins: Add the cooked orzo pasta to the pot, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pickles, ketchup, and mustard. Stir until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust any flavors as needed.
Let Flavors Meld: Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve: Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley on top.

Notes

For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey.
You can add a bit of smoked paprika or chili powder for extra depth of flavor if desired.
Ensure not to overcook the orzo to keep it pleasantly al dente.
Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
Adjust ketchup and mustard amounts to your taste preference.

Keywords: cheeseburger orzo, orzo pasta recipe, ground beef pasta, easy dinner, comfort food