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Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo

One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo for Cozy Family Nights

This One Pot Cheesy Taco Orzo is a comforting blend of flavors, ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Easily replaceable with ground turkey or chicken for lighter options.
  • 1 small Onion Chopped; no direct substitutes recommended.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh is best for aroma.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Chopped; can use any bell pepper variety.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Orzo Uncooked; ditalini or couscous can substitute.
  • 2 cups Taco Skillet Sauce Homemade taco sauce is a great alternative.
  • 2.5 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth provides a vegetarian option.
For Seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your dietary needs.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Pepper Can be omitted for a milder dish.
  • 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce Such as Sriracha; skip for a no-heat version.
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese Mozzarella and Cheddar blend; any preferred melting cheese can be used.
For Toppings
  • 1 medium Tomatoes Chopped; adds a refreshing crunch.
  • 0.5 cup Olives Chopped; complements the dish perfectly.
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Chopped; brings a crisp texture.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro Chopped; a delightful finishing touch.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns for about 5-7 minutes until it's no longer pink. Incorporate the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring for 1 minute until the onion is translucent. Next, add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in the uncooked orzo, taco skillet sauce, and low sodium chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce for a kick. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid and becomes tender.
  3. Once the orzo is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy, or sprinkle the cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let sit for a few minutes.
  4. Divide the mixture among serving bowls and top with fresh chopped tomatoes, olives, green onions, and cilantro for added flavor and color.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Freeze in portions for up to 1-2 months.

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