Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe

This Italian Sausage Orzo recipe is a quick and hearty one-pot meal, ideal for weeknight dinners. Combining tender orzo pasta, rich Italian sausage, and a creamy sauce with Parmesan and fresh spinach, this dish is both comforting and packed with flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a family-friendly option for those looking for an easy yet satisfying recipe. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a great choice for anyone seeking a balanced and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a soup pot or Dutch oven, add the Italian sausage. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Stir in the chopped onion and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until the sausage is browned and the onions are softened.
3. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and orzo pasta. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to maintain a gentle bubble. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pot.
5. Once the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Cover the pot and let it sit for 3-5 minutes to allow the spinach to wilt and the dish to thicken further.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Sausage Orzo combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy broth, and fresh spinach, making it a satisfying, one-pot meal. It’s easy to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The creamy texture and savory sausage create a delicious balance that both kids and adults will love.

Tips

• For extra flavor: You can sauté the sausage and onions in a bit of olive oil before adding the other ingredients to deepen the flavor.
• Avoid overcooking the orzo: Make sure to cook the orzo until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Add more vegetables: For added nutrition, feel free to throw in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms when sautéing the onions.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute the sausage: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter version of this dish.
• Non-dairy option: Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
• Cheese options: If you don’t have Parmesan, Romano or Pecorino Romano will work as well.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the recipe in advance, but it’s best to reheat it gently on the stove. The orzo will absorb more liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Can I freeze this dish?
While freezing is possible, the cream sauce may change in texture upon reheating. If you plan to freeze, make sure to store the dish in an airtight container and reheat it slowly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty Italian Sausage Orzo as a main dish with a side of garlic bread or a green salad to complement the richness of the meal. For a more substantial dish, you can pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus.