This Easy Italian Sausage Orzo is a comforting dish full of flavor! With tasty Italian sausage, tiny orzo pasta, and fresh veggies, it’s a hearty meal everyone will enjoy.
I love how quickly this comes together! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss. Plus, who doesn’t love pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. Plant-based sausages are also a great vegetarian alternative!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is such a fun shape! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with small pasta like ditalini, or even rice can work in a pinch, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Chicken Broth: I prefer low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, use vegetable broth instead. It’s just as tasty!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice color and nutrients. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach can be used—just make sure it’s thawed and drained well.
Why Is Sautéing the Onion and Garlic Important?
Sautéing the onion and garlic serves to develop their flavors before adding other ingredients. This step adds depth to your dish!
- Start by heating the olive oil in the skillet to medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion first; cook until soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- Then, add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This prevents burning, which can make the garlic taste bitter.
Getting this step right ensures your orzo has a wonderful base flavor! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Easy Italian Sausage Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. With 5-7 minutes of preparation followed by about 15-20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, pour in the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, add in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not burnt!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Next, stir in the orzo pasta. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. This adds a great nutty flavor to your dish.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the drained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Simmer the Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the orzo to be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
6. Add the Sausage and Spinach:
Now, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts down nicely.
7. Finish with Cheese:
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and well incorporated into the dish. This will make it creamy and delicious!
8. Taste and Serve:
Give the orzo a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once you’re happy with the flavors, serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley on top.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Easy Italian Sausage Orzo!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for Italian sausage. Just be sure to season them well, as they can be milder in flavor. Adding some fennel, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes can give them that signature Italian sausage taste.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No problem! If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up if it becomes too thick.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onions to enhance their flavors before adding the orzo.
