One-Pot Italian Sausage And Orzo Pasta Meal

August 5, 2025

This One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta Meal is comforting and easy! With tasty Italian sausage, tiny pasta, and colorful veggies, it’s a dinner to love.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Italian Sausage: The star of this dish! I prefer spicy Italian sausage for added flavor, but feel free to use sweet sausage or turkey sausage if you want a healthier option.

Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a unique texture, but you can use small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you’re out of orzo. Just remember, cooking times will vary.

Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. You can swap it for kale or swiss chard if you prefer. Frozen spinach works too, just thaw and squeeze out excess water!

Chicken Broth: For a richer flavor, use homemade broth. If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can be used instead, though it will change the dish flavor slightly.

How Do You Ensure the Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking orzo right is key for this dish. Here are some tips:

  • Make sure to stir the orzo when you first add it to the skillet. This helps it absorb flavors and prevents sticking.
  • Keep an eye on the liquid level. If it’s getting too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
  • Check for doneness around the 10-minute mark. Orzo should be al dente, tender but still with a bit of bite.

Don’t forget to taste it before serving! Adjust seasoning as needed so every bite is flavorful.

One-Pot Italian Sausage And Orzo Pasta Meal

One-Pot Italian Sausage And Orzo Pasta Meal

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage links, casings removed and sliced or crumbled
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15-20 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s quick, delicious, and the meal comes together all in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Sausage:

First, heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Break it apart with your spatula and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet, and set it aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add your chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, throw in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until it becomes fragrant—this adds a wonderful flavor!

3. Toast the Orzo:

Now, it’s time to add the orzo pasta. Let it toast slightly in the pot for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously. This toasting helps enhance the flavor, so don’t skip this step!

4. Combine All Ingredients:

Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir!

5. Simmer Away:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.

6. Finish with Sausage and Spinach:

Once the orzo is tender, stir back in the cooked sausage and fresh spinach. Allow everything to cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.

7. Adjust & Serve:

Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. To finish, remove the pot from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm and, if you like, add grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor!

Enjoy this hearty, flavorful One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta Meal that’s quick to make and perfect for any weeknight!

One-Pot Italian Sausage And Orzo Pasta Meal

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use A Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice can be used. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.

Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Definitely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or even mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

What Should I Do with Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo, and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked to your liking.

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Willow

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