Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Orzo with Italian Sausage and Spinach

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Omnivore

Description

This Orzo with Italian Sausage and Spinach is a cozy, one-pan-style comfort dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Tender orzo is tossed with savory Italian sausage, sweet onions, garlic, and a generous handful of fresh spinach, then finished with Parmesan for a creamy, cheesy finish. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or hot)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped (loosely packed)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving, optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While the orzo cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened and translucent.
  5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant, stirring often so it doesn’t burn.
  6. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring, until the spinach is wilted.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  8. Add the drained orzo to the skillet and toss to combine everything evenly.
  9. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and lightly coats the orzo and sausage mixture.
  10. Taste and season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if using.
  11. Let the mixture cook together for another 2–3 minutes, stirring, until heated through and slightly thickened. Serve warm, with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust added salt to control overall sodium.
  • If the mixture seems dry after adding the orzo and cheese, splash in a bit more broth or a spoonful of reserved pasta water.
  • For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or a small knob of butter at the end.
  • This dish thickens as it sits; loosen leftovers with a splash of broth or water when reheating.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g (approx.)
  • Sodium: 820 mg (approx.)
  • Fat: 24 g (approx.)
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g (approx.)
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g (approx.)
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g (approx.)
  • Fiber: 3 g (approx.)
  • Protein: 24 g (approx.)
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg (approx.)

Keywords: orzo with Italian sausage and spinach, easy orzo skillet, sausage and spinach pasta, weeknight dinner, one-pan pasta

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://averyrecipes.com/orzo-with-italian-sausage-and-spinach/