Description
This hearty Italian Sausage Orzo is the ultimate comfort dish a cozy blend of savory sausage, tender orzo, and wilted spinach, all brought together in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers the taste of a homemade Italian meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you use mild or spicy sausage, this one-pot recipe promises a satisfying bite every time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and Italian seasoning, letting the grains toast lightly for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Fold in the chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until wilted.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley for a colorful finishing touch.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone at the end.
- Substitute kale for spinach if you prefer a heartier green.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully just add a splash of broth to loosen the orzo before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: Italian sausage orzo, one-pot pasta, spinach orzo, creamy orzo, sausage pasta