Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet

If you want an easy dinner that's guaranteed to make everyone at the table happy, then this one-pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet is about to earn a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation. It has all the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger...savory ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, tangy pickles, and a hint of mustard...all tucked into a creamy, comforting bowl of gluten-free orzo. Best of all, everything comes together in a single pot in just 30 minutes, making cleanup just as easy as dinner.

Weeknights don't leave much time for complicated recipes when you're in a busy season of life. This one is hearty enough to satisfy hungry kids and adults alike, while still being a homemade meal you can feel good about serving. Whether you're juggling school drop-offs, sports practices, or homework, this recipe delivers big comfort with minimal effort.

This recipe is also perfect for meal prep and leftovers. It reheats beautifully for lunch the next day with just a splash of milk or broth, making it a lifesaver during busy school weeks. Pair it with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or fresh fruit for a complete family-friendly dinner that's ready in about 30 minutes. If you're building a collection of reliable back-to-school dinners, this is one recipe you'll find yourself making again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?

Yes! You can use whole milk or unsweetened plain almond milk in this recipe. Whole milk will give the orzo a slightly richer, creamier texture, while unsweetened almond milk keeps it a little lighter. Just be sure to use plain, unsweetened almond milk so it doesn't add sweetness or vanilla flavor to the dish.

Can I use regular orzo instead of gluten-free orzo?

Absolutely. If you don't need the recipe to be gluten-free, regular orzo can be substituted. Keep in mind that different brands and varieties of orzo can absorb liquid differently, so you may need a small splash of additional broth or milk while cooking.

Can I make this cheeseburger orzo ahead of time?

Yes! This is a great make-ahead dinner for busy weeknights. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so when reheating, stir in a splash of milk or beef broth to bring back its creamy consistency. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I add vegetables to cheeseburger orzo?

Definitely. Finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini would all work well. You can sauté them along with the onion and ground beef. For an especially easy shortcut, serve the orzo with steamed broccoli or a simple green salad on the side instead of adding vegetables directly to the skillet.

What can I use instead of chives?

Thinly sliced green onions are my favorite substitute for chives and add a little more of that classic cheeseburger flavor. Fresh parsley can also be used if that's what you have on hand.

Can I freeze cheeseburger orzo?

I recommend enjoying this recipe fresh or refrigerated rather than freezing it. Because the dish contains a creamy cheese sauce, the texture can change slightly after freezing and thawing. For the best results, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

What should I serve with cheeseburger orzo?

Because this is a hearty one-pot meal, you don't need much on the side. Steamed broccoli, green beans, a simple salad, or fresh fruit are all easy options. You can also lean into the cheeseburger theme and top individual servings with extra chopped pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or a little extra cheddar.

INGREDIENTS

1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 lb lean ground beef

1½ cups yellow onion, diced

1 Tbsp fresh garlic, minced

2 Tbsp tomato paste

1 Tbsp coconut aminos

1 tsp yellow mustard

1 tsp kosher salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp smoked paprika

1 (9 oz) box gluten-free orzo

2¾ cups beef broth

1 cup whole milk or unsweetened plain almond milk

2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided

¼ cup dill pickles, finely chopped

1 Tbsp pickle juice

2 Tbsp fresh chives, chopped

Optional for serving

Diced tomatoes

Extra chopped dill pickles

Shredded iceberg lettuce

HOW TO MAKE

Heat the oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. 

Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease if needed.

Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, coconut aminos, mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. 

Cook for 1 minute, stirring often, until the tomato paste deepens in color and the garlic is fragrant.

Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. 

Bring to a gentle boil, then stir in the orzo. 

Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 2 cups of the cheddar cheese a handful at a time until completely melted and smooth.

Fold in the chopped pickles and pickle juice.

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar over the top. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Garnish with the fresh chives and, if desired, top with diced tomatoes, extra pickles, and shredded lettuce for all the classic cheeseburger flavors.