Creamy BBQ Bacon & Halloumi Orzo made in one pan with smoky paprika, crispy bacon, golden halloumi and a rich BBQ sauce. An easy, comforting 30-minute dinner recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
Scroll down for full recipe and instructions!
If you love quick, comforting one-pan dinners, this BBQ Bacon & Halloumi Orzo is about to become a new favourite. Packed with smoky bacon, golden fried halloumi, and a rich BBQ-infused creamy sauce, this dish is full of bold flavour while still being incredibly easy to make.
Everything cooks together in one pan, meaning minimal washing up and maximum flavour.
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Orzo is perfect for recipes like this because it cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavours in the pan. As it simmers in stock and cream cheese, it becomes creamy and comforting, almost like a cross between risotto and pasta.
The addition of smoked paprika, mixed herbs, and BBQ sauce gives the dish a smoky, slightly sweet depth that pairs perfectly with the salty crispness of bacon.
The star ingredient, however, is halloumi. Fried until golden and slightly crispy, it adds a delicious chewy texture and salty richness that makes this dish extra satisfying.
When added back on top with melted cheese and an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce, it creates the ultimate comforting meal.
This BBQ bacon halloumi orzo recipe is ideal for busy weeknights because it takes around 30 minutes from start to finish and uses simple ingredients you can easily find in any supermarket. It’s hearty enough to serve as a full meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread.
If you're looking for an easy one-pan pasta recipe, a family-friendly dinner, or something a little different from traditional pasta dishes, this smoky, creamy BBQ orzo ticks all the boxes.
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Can I make BBQ bacon halloumi orzo ahead of time?
Yes. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave with a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply leave out the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon alternative. The halloumi and BBQ flavours still make the dish incredibly satisfying.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Any BBQ sauce works well, but a smoky or honey BBQ sauce pairs especially nicely with the bacon and smoked paprika.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Spinach, sweetcorn, peppers, or courgette all work well and can easily be stirred in while the orzo cooks.
Can I freeze this dish?
It can be frozen, but the texture of the orzo and cream cheese sauce may change slightly. For best results, store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.
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