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Italian Sausage Orzo – A Cozy One-Pan Pasta Dinner

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A creamy, comforting one-pan meal made with savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables in a rich tomato-garlic broth — perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

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  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, casing removed)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 1/2 cups dry orzo

  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes (or 1 tbsp tomato paste + 1/4 cup water)

  • 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove and set aside.

  2. In the same pan, sauté onion and bell pepper until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.

  3. Stir in orzo, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Toast for 2–3 minutes.

  4. Add broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir and return sausage to the pan.

  5. Cover and simmer on low for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  6. Add spinach, cream, and Parmesan. Stir until wilted and creamy.

  7. Garnish and serve hot.

Notes

Add more broth if needed for creamier texture. For dairy-free version, use plant-based cream and cheese. Reheats well for leftovers.