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!
Servings: 4 servings
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.