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This hearty one-pan Italian sausage orzo has become my weeknight dinner savior when I need something comforting yet quick. The combination of savory sausage, tender orzo, and vegetables creates a satisfying meal that comes together in just one skillet.
I first created this dish when I had unexpected dinner guests and needed something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. The empty plates and requests for seconds confirmed it would become a regular in my rotation.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage: Sweet or spicy depending on your heat preference adds rich flavor as the protein foundation
- Orzo pasta: Resembles rice but cooks faster making it perfect for weeknight meals
- Bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color choose any color you prefer
- Yellow onion: Provides aromatic base flavor always look for firm onions without soft spots
- Garlic: Fresh minced cloves offer much better flavor than pre minced varieties
- Canned diced tomatoes: With juices provides acidity and moisture opt for fire roasted for extra flavor
- Fresh spinach: Wilts perfectly into the dish adding nutrition and color buy prewashed to save time
- Low sodium chicken broth: Creates the cooking liquid for the orzo choose low sodium to control saltiness
- Dried herbs: Basil and oregano infuse classic Italian flavors throughout the dish
- Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for best flavor when sautéing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Sausage:
- Heat a generous tablespoon of olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the Italian sausage slices and cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes before stirring to ensure proper browning. Continue cooking until all pieces are golden brown and cooked through about 5 to 7 minutes total. This caramelization creates deep flavor for the entire dish.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion diced bell pepper and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned sausage. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning while cooking until the vegetables soften and become fragrant about 3 to 4 minutes. The onions should become translucent but not brown.
- Add Pasta and Liquids:
- Pour in the uncooked orzo pasta canned diced tomatoes with all their flavorful juices and the chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients ensuring the orzo is submerged in liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Simmer Until Tender:
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight fitting lid. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes stirring every few minutes to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. The pasta should absorb most of the liquid and become tender. If it seems too dry add a splash more broth.
- Finish With Greens and Herbs:
- Remove the lid and fold in the fresh spinach dried basil and dried oregano. Gently stir until the spinach wilts into the hot mixture about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving the dish warm.
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The Italian sausage is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered that leaving the sausage in slightly larger pieces rather than breaking it up completely creates wonderful texture contrast in each bite. My teenage son who typically avoids vegetables will happily devour this dish without picking around the spinach and peppers.
Make Ahead and Storage
This one pan wonder actually improves in flavor overnight as the ingredients have time to meld together. To store leftovers allow the dish to cool completely then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The orzo will absorb more liquid as it sits so when reheating add a small splash of broth or water to loosen the mixture and prevent dryness.
Easy Variations
Turn this recipe into your own signature dish with simple swaps. Turkey or chicken sausage works beautifully for a lighter option. Not a fan of spinach? Baby kale or arugula make excellent alternatives. For a creamier finish stir in a quarter cup of cream cheese or a handful of grated parmesan at the end of cooking. During summer months try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried herbs.
Serving Suggestions
While this one pan meal is complete on its own consider serving it with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal. A chunk of crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce. For entertaining serve in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs for an elegant presentation that belies how easy this dish is to prepare.
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This Italian sausage orzo is an effortless yet impressive meal that is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use spicy sausage instead of sweet?
Yes, using spicy Italian sausage will add a kick of heat and extra depth of flavor. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
- → What can I substitute for orzo pasta?
If you don't have orzo, you can use small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even rice. Cooking times may vary slightly.
- → How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
To avoid sticking, stir occasionally while the orzo cooks and ensure there's enough liquid in the pan during cooking.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage, tofu, or simply use additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.