This one-pot dish combines juicy Italian sausage with fluffy orzo pasta. It’s packed with flavor and makes cleanup a breeze!
You’ll love how everything cooks together, soaking up all that deliciousness. Perfect for busy nights when you want a warm meal without the fuss!
I enjoy serving this with a sprinkle of cheese on top. It adds that extra yum factor! Plus, it’s so easy, even I can’t mess it up. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish. You can use mild or spicy based on your taste. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey sausage works well too!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice texture, like rice but with pasta. If you’re gluten-free, consider using rice or gluten-free orzo as a substitute.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used. Coconut milk is another great substitute for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Besides Parmesan, Pecorino Romano adds a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast is an excellent option for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Make Sure the Orzo Doesn’t Stick?
A key tip to prevent orzo from sticking is to stir it occasionally while cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and keeps it from clumping together. Here’s how:
- Use plenty of chicken broth, as this adds flavor and moisture.
- Cook on low heat after bringing to a boil to maintain gentle simmering.
- Stir every few minutes, especially toward the end of cooking, to keep everything moving.
Easy One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pot meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You want it browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, but don’t drain the fat—it adds flavor!
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and starting to become translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma.
3. Mixing It All Together:
Now it’s time to bring everything back together. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, dried Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmering the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want the orzo to be tender and for most of the liquid to be absorbed. Keep an eye on it to avoid sticking to the bottom!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the orzo is cooked through, take the pot off the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. This is what makes the dish creamy and decadent! Adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serving It Up:
Garnish your delicious dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. For an extra treat, feel free to sprinkle some more Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful one-pot Italian sausage and orzo pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will work just as well in this recipe. It may take a minute or two longer to cook, so just keep an eye on it to ensure it’s tender!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. Leave out the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast as a cheesy flavor substitute!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a side of roasted broccoli!
