Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Italian Sausage

This creamy parmesan orzo with Italian sausage is a quick, one-pan dinner ready in just 25 minutes. Tender orzo pasta is simmered in chicken broth and heavy cream, then tossed with spicy Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and grated parmesan. A comforting weeknight meal the whole family will love!

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Total Time25

Course: Main Dishes & Entrees, Noodles & Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: creamy parmesan orzo, garlic parmesan orzo, parmesan orzo, parmesan orzo recipes

Servings: servings

Author: Taneisha Morris

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups Orzo Pasta
5 Mild Italian Sausage or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
2 tbsp Butter
3 cloves Garlic minced
2 1/2 cups Chicken Broth
1 cup Heavy Cream
2 tbsp Italian Seasoning Blend
1 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
Heaping Handful of Spinach
Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

Add the butter and mild Italian sausage to a large skillet, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through. Discard excess oil if needed then add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add orzo and toast for 2-3 minutes, then add chicken broth, Italian seasoning and stir. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add heavy cream, parmesan cheese and spinach. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the orzo and sauce simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and orzo cooked. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Sausage swap: Hot Italian sausage adds extra heat. Chicken sausage works for a lighter version.

Make it ahead: This reheats well, add a splash of broth when warming to loosen the sauce.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days.

Nutrition