This tasty one-pot meal brings together juicy Italian sausage and fluffy orzo pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that packs lots of flavor with just a few ingredients!
You know it’s a winner when dinner is ready in one pot—less fuss and easy cleanup! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yum! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish! You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you prefer a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage. They work just as well and have less fat!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up flavors beautifully. If you can’t find orzo, substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a grain-free alternative.
Chicken Broth: This adds great depth to the dish. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable broth instead. Just be mindful that it might alter the flavor slightly.
Fresh Spinach: This is optional, but I love adding it for color and nutrition. You could swap it for kale or any leafy green if that’s what you have on hand!
How Do I Cook the Sausage Perfectly?
Cooking the sausage is crucial for a delicious meal. Here’s how to do it right:
- Brown the sausage over medium-high heat to develop flavor—about 5-7 minutes should do it. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Make sure it’s cooked through before removing it from the pot. This keeps the texture right in the final dish.
Remember to adjust the heat if it’s browning too quickly—medium heat ensures even cooking!
How Can I Prevent the Orzo from Sticking?
Keeping orzo from sticking is common concern. Here are some tips:
- Stir occasionally while cooking, especially in the first few minutes after adding the broth.
- Make sure you have enough liquid. The orzo should have ample broth to absorb without becoming too dry.
- Using a deep pot can help as it allows more room for stirring.
Following these tips will help you achieve a creamy, cohesive dish without the clumpy pasta!
Enjoy this wonderful recipe, and don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite veggies or spices!
Easy One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 15 minutes of cooking, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to have this delicious dish on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
First, heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir often and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, now add your chopped onion. Sauté it until it becomes soft, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir it in for another 30 seconds, just enough to make it fragrant but not burnt.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now, return the cooked sausage back into the pot along with the orzo pasta. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors together.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and the canned diced tomatoes, including their juices. Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Stir well!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Check occasionally and stir to keep the orzo from sticking. You want the pasta to be tender and most of the liquid to be absorbed.
6. Add Fresh Spinach (Optional):
If you’re using spinach, stir it in during the last two minutes of cooking. It should wilt nicely into the dish without overcooking.
7. Stir in the Cheese:
Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir it in until it melts and creates a creamy texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the pasta while it’s hot and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Enjoy your easy, flavorful Italian sausage and orzo pasta!
FAQ for Easy One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option, or even plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as some sausages cook faster than others.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo Pasta?
If orzo isn’t available, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous. Quinoa or rice would also work, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to bring back some moisture, as orzo can absorb liquid and dry out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based version, and swap chicken broth with vegetable broth. Ensure that your diced tomatoes are also vegetarian-friendly!
