Craving a quick, mouthwatering meal that combines the zesty kick of tacos with the comforting texture of pasta? Look no further than this game-changing Instant Pot Taco Orzo! In less time than it takes to order takeout, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine tender orzo pasta swimming in a rich, seasoned beef sauce, topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro - all prepared in a single pot with minimal effort. Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Mexican-inspired recipe that's about to become your new go-to meal!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Measure out orzo, ground beef, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, beef broth, corn, and shredded cheese. Chop fresh cilantro for garnish.
- Turn on Instant Pot and select the Sauté function. Allow the pot to heat up for 1-2 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the Instant Pot and brown completely, breaking meat into small crumbles. Cook for approximately 5-6 minutes until no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef if desired.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the browned beef and stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, and corn. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add orzo pasta to the mixture, ensuring it is submerged in liquid.
- Close Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook mode.
- Cook on high pressure for 4-5 minutes, then perform a quick release of pressure.
- Open lid and stir contents. If pasta seems too liquid, let sit for 2-3 minutes to absorb remaining moisture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and allow to melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Instant Pot Taco Orzo!
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using homemade taco seasoning instead of a packet for a more personalized taste.
- Make sure to break the ground beef into small, even crumbles for consistent cooking and better texture.
- Don't skip draining excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy final dish.
- Ensure the orzo is fully submerged in liquid before pressure cooking to guarantee even cooking.
- Perform a quick release to prevent overcooking the pasta, which can become mushy.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow any remaining liquid to be absorbed.
- Customize your taco orzo with optional toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, or sliced jalapeños.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
