Hearty skillet with beef, orzo, cheddar, and pickle crunch delivers classic flavors in every bite.
# Components:
→ Proteins
01 - 1 lb ground beef (85-90% lean)
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
→ Pasta
05 - 1 1/4 cups orzo pasta
→ Liquids
06 - 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
07 - 1/2 cup whole milk
→ Cheeses
08 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
→ Condiments & Seasonings
09 - 2 tbsp ketchup
10 - 1 tbsp yellow mustard
11 - 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
12 - 1/2 cup dill pickles, diced
13 - 1/4 cup crispy fried onions or potato sticks
14 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
15 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
16 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
→ Garnishes
17 - Dill pickle slices, for garnish (optional)
18 - 1 tbsp fresh chives or scallions, chopped (optional)
# Directions:
01 - In a large, deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, approximately 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
02 - Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Stir in the halved tomatoes, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
04 - Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it with the beef and vegetable mixture. Pour in the beef broth and milk, then bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
05 - Stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture has achieved a creamy consistency.
06 - Gently fold in the diced dill pickles. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed.
07 - Remove the skillet from the heat. Top the dish with crispy fried onions or potato sticks and additional pickle slices. Sprinkle with fresh chives or scallions, if desired. Serve hot directly from the skillet.
