Name: Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed); 1 small yellow onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked); 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups baby spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Italian Sausage Orzo is an absolute revelation when you crave something comforting, hearty, and packed with flavor but also need dinner on the table fast. This one-pan wonder brings together savory sausage, tender orzo pasta, and fresh veggies, all tied together in a creamy, cheesy embrace. Every bite is a burst of Italian-inspired goodness, with a luscious tomato base, plenty of greens, and those little pearls of orzo that soak up every drop of flavor. Whether you’re pleasing picky eaters or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish is bound to become a staple at your table.

Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The real joy of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you probably have most of these ingredients on hand already! Each one plays a superstar role, from building a savory base to adding pops of color and richness. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter.

Olive oil: Essential for sauteing and bringing out the sausage’s flavor without sticking, while adding a subtle fruitiness.
Italian sausage: The star of the show—spicy or mild, it infuses the whole dish with that unmistakable sausage flavor. Remove the casings for a crumbled, meaty base.
Yellow onion: Diced finely, onion brings sweetness and aromatic depth to the Italian Sausage Orzo.
Garlic: Minced cloves simmered with onion release nutrient-rich oils, dialing up the savory notes.
Orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta soaks up broth and sauce, making every bite ultra-creamy and satisfying.
Chicken broth: Rich, flavorful liquid that transforms the orzo into something truly special—choose low sodium if you prefer more control over saltiness.
Diced tomatoes (with juice): Canned tomatoes add bright acidity and a touch of sweetness, while their juices help form a velvet-smooth sauce.
Dried oregano: This herb infuses the dish with classic Italian flavor—don’t skip it!
Salt: Brings out all the flavors in the sausage and vegetables; adjust to taste depending on your broth.
Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and earthiness to the Italian Sausage Orzo.
Baby spinach: Wilts beautifully at the end, sneaking in extra nutrients and balancing out the richness.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The ultimate finishing touch for creamy texture and salty, nutty flavor.
Chopped fresh basil (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Make Italian Sausage Orzo

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your Italian sausage straight to the pan. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, getting those glorious crispy brown bits on the edges. Browning the sausage first not only seals in flavor but sets the tone for the whole dish!

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the sausage is fully cooked, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together and let it sauté for a couple minutes. The goal is to soften the onion and gently toast the garlic, releasing incredible aroma and building depth for your Italian Sausage Orzo.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Time to stir in the orzo pasta. Cook it for just a minute or two, letting it toast lightly in the sausage drippings. This quick step adds nuttiness and helps the orzo hold its shape, ensuring every little bite stays perfectly al dente.

Step 4: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in your chicken broth along with the can of diced tomatoes—juice included. Add oregano, salt, and black pepper, then give everything a good stir. Bring the whole skillet to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it bubble quietly. Stir every so often, letting the orzo soak up the bold, savory flavors.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

After about 10 to 12 minutes, most of the liquid should be absorbed and the orzo tender. Gently fold in your baby spinach and let it wilt down into the mix. Finish by stirring in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt and bind everything together into absolute creamy perfection. Top with fresh basil if you like, and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Orzo

Garnishes

A sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a scattering of chopped fresh basil always looks gorgeous and adds a fresh zing. If you love a little heat, a quick dusting of red pepper flakes takes the Italian Sausage Orzo to another level. Add a drizzle of olive oil for glossy, restaurant-style flair.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread for mopping up sauces is a must—think garlic bread or a rustic sourdough. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette lightens up the meal, while simple roasted veggies work beautifully with the hearty, rich pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish straight from the skillet at the table for a cozy, family-style vibe. Use small ramekins or mini Dutch ovens for a dinner party presentation—each guest gets their own bubbling portion of Italian Sausage Orzo! Or, spoon it over a bed of arugula for a pasta salad twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Sausage Orzo keeps beautifully in the fridge! Scoop any extra into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors mingle and deepen overnight, making your next bowl even more rewarding.

Freezing

To freeze, let the orzo cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Freeze in single portions for quick lunches or family-size for an instant, homemade dinner on busy nights.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat or zap in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen things up. Stir occasionally until hot and creamy—just like freshly made!

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Mild or spicy Italian sausage is classic, but you can swap in chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage to suit your taste and dietary needs. Each option brings its own unique flavor profile to your Italian Sausage Orzo.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes—simply substitute gluten-free orzo pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time on the package, as some gluten-free pastas cook more quickly. The rest of the recipe remains exactly the same and every bit as delicious.

Can I add more veggies to Italian Sausage Orzo?

Definitely! Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or even peas when you sauté the onions and garlic. Italian Sausage Orzo is wonderfully adaptable and a clever way to use up extra produce in your fridge.

What’s the best broth to use?

Chicken broth is classic and gives a savory, well-rounded flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap in vegetable broth—just note the finished flavor will be slightly lighter, but still completely delicious.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Opt for chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork, use low-fat or part-skim Parmesan cheese, and add extra spinach for more greens. Italian Sausage Orzo is easy to adapt to your preferences without sacrificing bold flavor.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Italian Sausage Orzo, you’ll see just how easy and satisfying it is to create restaurant-worthy comfort food at home. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again, for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, and everything in between. Gather your ingredients, get your favorite skillet, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a warming bowl of Italian-inspired goodness tonight!

Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe

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4.8 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and flavorful one-pan pasta dish featuring Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant spinach, all simmered together in a savory broth with tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. This Italian Sausage Orzo is a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
1 small yellow onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups baby spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned.
Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Stir in orzo and cook briefly.
Add broth, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer. Cook covered until orzo is tender.
Stir in spinach until wilted, then add Parmesan. Garnish with basil and serve.