One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo
This One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo is quick, easy, and bursting with bold taco flavors and melty cheese — perfect for a cozy weeknight meal!
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 2 cups orzo uncooked
- 2 cups taco skillet sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth low sodium
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce such as Sriracha
- 1 cup cheese shredded (blend of Mozzarella and Cheddar)
- Tomatoes chopped (for garnish)
- Olives chopped (for garnish)
- Green onions chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by heating your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally to break it apart.
- Once the beef is nearly cooked through, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the uncooked orzo, taco skillet sauce, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add the hot sauce for an extra kick. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the orzo to cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cover the pot again for a few minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully into the dish.
- Give the orzo a gentle stir to incorporate the melted cheese. Serve it warm, garnished with chopped tomatoes, olives, green onions, and fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- Make the recipe vegetarian by substituting ground beef with black beans or lentils and using vegetable broth.
- Try adding extra vegetables like corn, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of hot sauce or adding jalapeños to suit your taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or water.
- Use different cheese blends like Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.