Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe
If you’re hunting for a dish that truly delivers on flavor, color, and pure comfort, look no further than Italian Sausage Orzo. This one-pan wonder is deeply savory, gently creamy, and bursting with bright veggies in every bite. Minty basil, punchy sausage, gooey Parmesan, and the lovely tender texture of orzo all come together in just half an hour—making this meal not only beautiful, but perfect for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. Whether you’re planning an easy family dinner or hoping for fabulous leftovers, Italian Sausage Orzo is your new go-to!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how just a handful of everyday ingredients combine to create something extraordinary in this dish! Every single element plays an important role, whether it’s bringing umami, freshness, or that irresistible touch of creaminess.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps bring out the flavors as the sausage sizzles.
- Italian sausage (casings removed): The star of our show, infusing the orzo with unmistakable savory and aromatic notes.
- Yellow onion (diced): Offers gentle sweetness and depth to the base of the dish.
- Garlic (minced): Provides a flavor boost with that classic Italian aroma.
- Red bell pepper (diced): Brings a pop of color and a sweet, mild crunch.
- Zucchini (diced): Adds freshness, tender texture, and a subtle earthiness.
- Dry orzo pasta: These little rice-shaped pasta pieces become gloriously creamy and comforting as they cook.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses everything with savory depth while keeping things light and not overly salty.
- Diced tomatoes (undrained): Contribute tangy acidity and sauciness to balance the richness.
- Dried oregano: Brings herby Italian flair and a subtle hint of Mediterranean sunshine.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, this is your moment to shine.
- Salt: Enhances and brings out all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper: Lends warmth and just the right touch of spice.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Stirred in at the end for a creamy finish and irresistible umami.
- Fresh basil (optional): A sprinkle of brightness and lovely aroma to finish off your Italian Sausage Orzo.
How to Make Italian Sausage Orzo
Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage
Start things off by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the sausage into the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon. When the sausage is no longer pink and beautifully browned—about 5 to 6 minutes—you’ll know you’ve developed a deeply savory flavor that forms the backbone of your Italian Sausage Orzo.
Step 2: Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Veggies
Once the sausage is cooked, toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softening and their natural sweetness begins to shine. This layer of flavor makes the dish truly irresistible.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Add the dry orzo pasta straight into the skillet with the sausage and veggies. Toast the orzo for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often. This simple step deepens the nutty flavor of the pasta and helps ensure your Italian Sausage Orzo gets that extra dimension in taste.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Sprinkle over the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir so all those gorgeous flavors combine and mingle.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every so often, until the orzo is perfectly tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing as everything melds together!
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Basil
Once done, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan. The cheese melts into the orzo, giving the dish a creamy, luscious finish. Let it sit uncovered for 3 to 5 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. If you’re feeling fancy, shower the finished Italian Sausage Orzo with fresh chopped basil just before serving for a fragrant, beautiful touch.
How to Serve Italian Sausage Orzo
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of Parmesan is always a fan favorite, but don’t stop there! Scatter some fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley over the top for a burst of color and garden-fresh flavor. Even a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a touch of cracked black pepper can make your bowl of Italian Sausage Orzo pop.
Side Dishes
Pair your Italian Sausage Orzo with a crisp green salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette, or serve alongside some warm, crusty bread for scooping up all those delicious juices. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans also play beautifully with the robust flavors of this pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon Italian Sausage Orzo into miniature ramekins as an appetizer or family-style on a big platter, garnished with extra herbs and cheese. It also makes a stunning centerpiece served in shallow bowls at a casual dinner party, inviting guests to dig in and help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Italian Sausage Orzo keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors become even more developed as they mingle, making for an easy, crave-worthy lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Italian Sausage Orzo for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and be sure to leave a little room for expansion. Just know that the texture of the orzo may become a bit softer after freezing, but the taste remains spot-on.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back its creamy consistency. Give it a good stir and finish with another sprinkle of Parmesan to liven things up.
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! While traditional pork Italian sausage brings lots of flavor, turkey or chicken sausage are delicious lighter alternatives and work perfectly in Italian Sausage Orzo.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Italian Sausage Orzo can certainly be made gluten-free by swapping in your favorite gluten-free orzo pasta. Keep an eye on your cooking time since some gluten-free pastas may need adjustments.
What can I substitute for zucchini?
If zucchini isn’t your thing, you can try yellow squash, mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli florets. This dish is very versatile and welcomes a wide range of vegetables.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes indeed! Use your favorite plant-based sausage and swap in veggie broth for the chicken broth, and you’ll have a vegetarian Italian Sausage Orzo that’s just as hearty and satisfying.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too soupy?
If you find your orzo is swimming in a little too much liquid at the end, just let it sit uncovered off the heat for a few minutes. The orzo will absorb more of the sauce and become perfectly creamy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about how Italian Sausage Orzo comes together so quickly yet feels like you’ve cooked a meal straight from the heart. I can’t wait for you to try it—whether you’re making dinner for family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself. Give it a go and watch it become a regular favorite!
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Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and hearty Italian sausage orzo dish that is quick and easy to make. This one-pan meal features savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a variety of colorful vegetables cooked in a delicious broth.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 zucchini (diced)
- 1 and 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.
- Cook sausage: Add Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Add diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 4–5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Toast orzo: Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 12–15 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, and let sit for 3–5 minutes. Sprinkle with basil before serving if desired.
Notes
Notes:
- For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes.
- You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
