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Italian Sausage Orzo

Italian Sausage Orzo

Make this creamy Italian Sausage Orzo in one pan with savory sausage, tender orzo, spinach, and Parmesan. An easy 30-minute weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 690
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1½ cups uncooked orzo
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
  3. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add the uncooked orzo and stir for 1 minute.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  7. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
  8. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well.
  9. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
  10. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
  11. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
  12. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Stir the orzo often so it doesn't stick to the pan.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Add a splash of broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Mild or spicy Italian sausage both work well.
  • The sauce thickens as it cools.