Description
Creamy Cheesy Taco Orzo is a quick and comforting one-pot meal that combines tender orzo pasta with bold taco-seasoned ground meat, melted cream cheese, and sharp cheddar. This flavorful fusion of Mexican spices and creamy cheese offers a warm, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or feeding the family, with easy customization options for dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or about 2 tablespoons homemade blend)
- 4 oz cream cheese (cut into chunks)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (preferably freshly shredded)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced avocado
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until onions are soft and fragrant.
- Add Taco Seasoning and Tomatoes: Sprinkle the taco seasoning into the meat mixture, stirring well to coat evenly. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and mix thoroughly to combine the juicy, slightly spicy flavors.
- Stir in Orzo and Broth: Add the dry orzo pasta directly to the skillet followed by the chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let the orzo absorb the liquid and cook until tender.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese and Cheddar: When the orzo is cooked and most broth is absorbed, reduce heat to low. Add chunks of cream cheese and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce.
- Finish and Garnish: Turn off the heat. Stir in fresh chopped cilantro if desired for brightness. Serve the dish warm and gooey immediately.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce and better melt.
- Aim to cook orzo al dente to avoid mushy texture after adding cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before adding cheese for best flavor balance.
- Keep heat low when melting cheese to prevent curdling and maintain creaminess.
- Add extra broth gradually if you prefer a saucier orzo texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: creamy taco orzo, cheesy taco pasta, one-pot taco recipe, quick weeknight dinner, Mexican-inspired comfort food
