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–+ servings
Italian Sausage Orzo

Creamy Italian Sausage Orzo for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This creamy Italian sausage orzo is a delicious and comforting weeknight dinner option that is quick and easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dish
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Substitute with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
  • 1 medium Onion Can be replaced with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder as a substitute if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste or omit for a milder dish.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Substitute with another small pasta if desired.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Replace with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Can be substituted with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
  • 4 cups Baby Spinach Swiss chard or kale can be used as alternatives.
Optional Additions
  • 1 cup Mushrooms Great for enhancing taste.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (like Basil or Oregano) Toss in at the end for a refreshing burst of flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-dried Tomatoes Include for a tangy flavor boost.

Equipment

  • Large soup pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat over medium-high heat, then add crumbled Italian sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned.
  2. Once the sausage is browned, add chopped onions to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the orzo pasta.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium and allow the dish to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring well.
  6. Once the orzo is tender, remove the pot from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach, then cover for 3 to 5 minutes.
  7. Before serving, taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir everything together and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Stir frequently while cooking to prevent sticking. Adjust broth levels and seasoning as needed. Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking for the best texture.

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