Easy One-Pot Italian Sausage Orzo Pasta

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Italian Sausage: The sausage adds a lot of flavors. You can use spicy or sweet Italian sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage instead; it works well and keeps the dish lighter.

Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is perfect for soaking up flavors. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time based on the shape you choose.

Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the dish. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead. It will still create a tasty background for your flavors!

Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down nicely, but you can use kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Frozen spinach can also work; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.

How Do I Cook the Orzo Without it Sticking?

Cooking orzo can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to keep it from clumping together:

• Toast the orzo in the pan for 1-2 minutes before adding the broth. This helps create a nutty flavor and reduces stickiness.
• Stir the orzo occasionally while it’s simmering. This ensures even cooking and prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Make sure the pot is large enough to give the orzo space to move around as it cooks.

Easy One-Pot Italian Sausage Orzo Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage links, casings removed and crumbled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (or stock)
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Time Needed:

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. It’s a quick dish that comes together nicely in one pot, perfect for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

Using the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and lovely.

3. Toast the Orzo:

Add the orzo pasta to the pan and lightly toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This adds a nice nutty flavor!

4. Combine Ingredients:

Now, pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir well to combine everything.

5. Simmer:

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!

6. Add Sausage and Spinach:

Once the orzo is cooked, stir the browned sausage back into the pan along with the chopped fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and blend in.

7. Stir in Parmesan:

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and thoroughly combined, giving your pasta a creamy finish.

8. Garnish and Serve:

Finish by garnishing with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful, hearty one-pot Italian sausage orzo pasta!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you cook it thoroughly as per the instructions.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead! Chop the onions, garlic, and spinach, and store them in the fridge for up to a day. However, it’s best to cook the dish fresh for optimal texture and flavor. If you must make it ahead, consider stopping just before adding the spinach and Parmesan, then add those when reheating.

What Can I Use Instead of Orzo Pasta?

If you don’t have orzo, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even quinoa. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose for best results.