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This one-pan Italian sausage and orzo pasta is my secret weapon for nights when everyone’s hungry and I have little energy to spare. It is rich with savory sausage, plump orzo, and a tomato sauce that soaks up all the good flavors. The best part is you only need one pan and about half an hour to get it on the table.
I make this when I want something everyone loves without fuss or tricky steps. The aroma alone brings my family running to the kitchen and there are never any leftovers.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage crumbled: Look for good quality sausage with herbs and a little spice for best flavor
- Orzo pasta: Tiny rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly Ideal for soaking up the sauce and creating a creamy texture
- Olive oil: A drizzle helps brown the sausage and build flavor Use extra virgin if you can
- Onion chopped: Yellow or white onions are classic and give sweetness Choose firm ones with no soft spots
- Garlic cloves minced: Adds warmth and an irresistible aroma Fresh garlic will make a big difference here
- Chicken broth: The liquid that lets the orzo cook and adds a savory base Opt for low sodium so you control saltiness
- Canned diced tomatoes: A touch of acidity and sweetness Pick a good quality brand for best results
- Italian seasoning: Gives a simple herby lift Use fresh dried blends for boldness
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings creaminess and depth Buy fresh Parmesan and grate yourself for the best flavor
- Salt and black pepper: These balance and awaken the flavors Always taste before you add extra
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: Optional but I love the bright freshness at the end Pick leaves with vibrancy and no wilting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
- Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the crumbled Italian sausage Cook until completely browned and cooked through breaking up large chunks as it cooks Spoon off any extra grease so the dish is not oily
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add your chopped onion and minced garlic to the same pan Stir them gently and cook for two to three minutes You want the onion soft and the garlic fragrant but not browned
- Add Orzo and Build the Sauce:
- Pour in the orzo pasta chicken broth canned diced tomatoes and sprinkle over the Italian seasoning Give everything a good stir Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any tasty browned bits That’s where flavor hides Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer Use medium low heat so nothing burns
- Simmer and Cook Pasta:
- Let the skillet cook uncovered on medium low for ten to twelve minutes Stir every couple of minutes so the orzo does not stick or clump Paste should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed If it looks dry before the orzo is done splash in a little more broth
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan in and season with salt and pepper to your taste Stir well Garnish with torn basil or chopped parsley Scoop steaming portions straight from the pan and serve hot
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The sausage is my personal favorite ingredient because it holds all kinds of flavor I remember serving this when my best friend visited and we ended up laughing at how quickly we polished off the entire skillet
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container I store mine in the fridge for up to three days To reheat add a splash of broth or water and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave This keeps it from getting too dry
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are avoiding pork try turkey or chicken sausage Or go plant based for a vegetarian version with meatless sausage and veggie broth For a gluten free option swap orzo for a small gluten free pasta or even rice
Serving Suggestions
Serve this with a simple green salad and maybe a chunk of crusty bread My family loves it with a side of roasted broccoli or even just some sliced cucumbers in vinegar It is also wonderful as leftovers for lunch
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Cultural Context
Dishes featuring sausage and pasta are comfort classics in Italian home cooking Orzo is popular throughout the Mediterranean There is something deeply satisfying about cooking everything in one pan the flavors meld and dinner feels more relaxed and inviting
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use another type of sausage?
Yes, mild or spicy Italian, chicken, or plant-based sausage all work well in this dish.
- → Is it possible to substitute orzo?
Small pasta shapes, such as ditalini or couscous, can be swapped in for orzo with similar results.
- → What vegetables pair well with this meal?
Spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers make tasty additions. Stir in greens at the end of cooking.
- → Can I make this dish creamy?
Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone before serving for a richer texture.
- → How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally while simmering and make sure there is enough broth in the skillet to keep it loose.
- → Is this meal good for leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of broth to loosen the orzo.