If you are craving a rich and comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe is just what you need. Combining the hearty flavors of Italian sausage with tender orzo pasta, a touch of spinach for freshness, and a splash of savory tomato broth, this one-pan wonder delivers an irresistible balance of taste and texture. It’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight yet impressive enough to share with friends, making it a total favorite in my kitchen and hopefully yours too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this dish sing with flavor. Each component plays an essential role: the sausage provides spice and depth, the orzo offers a lovely bite and body, and the greens add a bright contrast.
- Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing and bringing all flavors together smoothly.
- Italian sausage (1 pound, casings removed): Adds savory richness and a bit of spicy personality.
- Small onion (diced): Gently sweetens and softens the dish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Provides aromatic depth and warmth.
- Orzo pasta (1 cup uncooked): This tiny pasta shapes the dish with comforting, tender texture.
- Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Sprinkles in classic Italian herb flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle heat that elevates the spices.
- Canned diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces, with juices): Brings juiciness and vibrant acidity.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): The savory liquid that cooks the orzo and infuses the dish.
- Baby spinach (2 cups): Folds in gentle green freshness and color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds creamy umami finishing touch.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances flavors and balances seasoning.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A fragrant, beautiful touch to top off your plate.
How to Make Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step gives you that irresistible caramelized flavor that forms the base of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, toss in your diced onion. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened, then stir in minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) to add aromatic layers that carry through the entire dish.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet and stir it around for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the orzo enhances its nutty flavor and gives a little extra texture to your final dish.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—they are little flavor treasures! Bring everything to a simmer, then lower the heat and cover the skillet to cook gently.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Let the orzo cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This is where all those flavors meld beautifully into a comforting and cohesive dish.
Step 6: Stir in Spinach and Parmesan
Just before serving, fold in the baby spinach and Parmesan cheese. The spinach wilts down delicately while the cheese melts into a lush creaminess that pulls everything together in a delightful finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Serve Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a fantastic garnish here—its bright, peppery notes cut through the richness, adding a fresh layer that awakens the palate and makes every bite feel lively.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty orzo with a simple green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to keep things fresh, or some warm crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables also complement the dish’s savory flavor profile perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe in shallow bowls topped with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for an elegant touch. For casual gatherings, family-style serving right from the skillet invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the cozy, communal vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Italian Sausage Orzo, but keep in mind that spinach and cheese may change texture slightly after thawing. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months to enjoy a quick meal later.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the orzo seems dry. Stir thoroughly to restore that creamy consistency and freshen the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that will still provide plenty of flavor, though it might be a bit milder in taste. Adjust seasoning if you want an extra kick.
Is orzo the only pasta suitable for this recipe?
While orzo is ideal for its texture and size, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the Italian sausage for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to keep the dish vegetarian.
What if I don’t have fresh basil for garnish?
No worries! Fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs can offer a lovely herbal note to finish your dish.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on the sausage you choose and the optional red pepper flakes. Using mild sausage keeps it gentle, while hot Italian sausage and red pepper flakes bring a nice warm punch.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser—packed with vibrant, comforting flavors and simple ingredients that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests with minimal fuss, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm welcome every time. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to favorites too.
Print
Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Italian Sausage Orzo is a hearty and creamy one-pan meal combining savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and fresh spinach in a flavorful tomato and herb broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or comfort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to release their flavors.
- Toast the Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta, toasting it in the skillet for 1–2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to enrich the sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Cook Orzo: Let the mixture simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with Greens and Cheese: Stir in the baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese until the spinach wilts and the dish becomes creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle fresh basil over the dish before serving warm for a bright, herbal finish.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end.
- Substitute spinach with kale or arugula if desired.
- Use hot Italian sausage to add extra spiciness to the dish.
