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Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe

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4.3 from 14 reviews

This Italian Sausage Orzo recipe offers a creamy, comforting one-pot meal that combines savory Italian sausage with tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick dinner that bursts with rich flavors and a hint of spice.

Ingredients

Sausage Base

  • 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, or more to taste)

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the sausage: Add the sausage meat to a soup pot or Dutch oven and cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks until browned.
  2. Add onions: Stir in the chopped onions and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions have softened.
  3. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and orzo: Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and orzo pasta; cook for 30 seconds to release the garlic aroma.
  4. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Once the mixture starts to bubble, reduce heat to medium or medium-low so it gently simmers. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking, until the pasta is tender and liquid is slightly thickened.
  5. Finish with cheese and spinach: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh baby spinach. Cover and let sit for 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens to your liking.
  6. Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve the creamy Italian Sausage Orzo immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy alternative.
  • Make sure to stir frequently while simmering to prevent pasta from sticking or burning on the bottom of the pot.
  • Italian sausage can be sweet or spicy depending on your preference; choose accordingly.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
  • The spinach wilts perfectly when added off the heat, preserving its bright color and nutrients.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/italian-sausage-orzo-recipe-2/