Cheeseburger Orzo Pickle Crunch (Print Version)

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.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses everyday pantry staples you likely already have
  • One-pan cleanup makes weeknight cooking stress-free
  • Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults too
02 -
  • Stirring occasionally while orzo cooks prevents clumping and ensures even cooking
  • The dish will continue to thicken as it stands so serve promptly for best texture
  • Can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess
03 -
  • Toast the orzo in a dry pan for 2 minutes before adding to the skillet for nutty flavor and better texture
  • Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded which contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting
  • Create layers of pickle flavor by adding half the pickles during cooking and reserving half for the topping
  • For an extra flavor boost deglaze the pan with 2 tablespoons of beer after browning the beef
  • Let the finished dish rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set up perfectly

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