Description of this recipe: This One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is a complete, flavorful meal made entirely in a single skillet. It combines savory Italian sausage with tender orzo pasta, vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a light tomato-based broth. The result is a satisfying and easy-to-clean-up dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Ease and Convenience: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one pan, minimizing cleanup and making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful and Balanced: The combination of savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, aromatic garlic and herbs, and the slight acidity of the diced tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors. The addition of fresh spinach provides a healthy dose of greens.
- Customizable: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily substitute different vegetables, herbs, or types of sausage to suit your preferences. Want it spicier? Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Prefer different vegetables? Zucchini, mushrooms, or even broccoli would work well.
- Quick Cooking Time: From start to finish, this dish is ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great option when you’re short on time but still want a delicious and homemade meal.
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making this a great choice for budget-conscious cooks.
Introduction
One-pan meals are a lifesaver for anyone who loves to cook but dreads the mountain of dishes that often follows. This One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta recipe is a perfect example of how you can create a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s a dish that appeals to both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, thanks to its straightforward instructions and adaptable nature.
This recipe is inspired by the classic Italian flavors we all know and love. The hearty Italian sausage, simmered with sweet bell peppers and aromatic garlic, forms the base of the dish. The orzo pasta, a rice-shaped pasta, soaks up the flavorful broth as it cooks, creating a creamy and comforting texture. The addition of fresh spinach at the end adds a pop of color and a healthy dose of nutrients.
This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the ingredients simmer together is simply irresistible. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the rich sauce are a feast for the eyes. And the taste? A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors that will leave you wanting more.
So, gather your ingredients, grab your favorite skillet, and let’s get cooking! You’re about to discover a new weeknight favorite that will become a regular in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
Heat approximately 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients. Add the Italian sausage, making sure to remove it from the casings if you are using links. Break the sausage apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook the sausage until it is browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Be sure to turn the sausage occasionally to ensure even browning. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Leave the rendered fat in the skillet; this will add flavor to the vegetables. If there’s excessive fat, you can drain some of it off, leaving about a tablespoon or two in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir continuously while the garlic is cooking.
Step 3: Add the Orzo and Tomatoes
Stir in the orzo pasta, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and chicken broth. Make sure the orzo is evenly distributed in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and chicken broth may already contain salt, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Orzo
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan. The orzo should be al dente – slightly firm to the bite. If the orzo is still too firm and the liquid has been absorbed, add a little more chicken broth and continue to simmer until tender.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Herbs
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh spinach, dried basil, and dried oregano. Fold the spinach into the hot pasta mixture until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. The residual heat will be enough to wilt the spinach. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve immediately while hot.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- A dollop of ricotta cheese on top adds creaminess and richness.
Tips:
- Use good quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage is crucial to the success of this dish, so choose a high-quality Italian sausage that you enjoy.
- Don’t overcook the orzo: Overcooked orzo can become mushy, so be sure to check it frequently during cooking.
- Adjust the liquid as needed: The amount of liquid needed may vary depending on the type of orzo and the heat of your stove. If the orzo is drying out too quickly, add a little more chicken broth.
- Customize with vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, or peas.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving Protein: 25-35g per serving Sodium: 600-800mg per serving
Conclusion
This One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is a testament to the fact that delicious and satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s a versatile and customizable dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prepping. The combination of savory sausage, tender orzo, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. So, give this recipe a try and experience the joy of a delicious and easy-to-clean-up meal!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Italian sausage is the classic choice, you can certainly substitute it with other types of sausage depending on your preference. Chicken sausage, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage alternatives would work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some sausages may require more or less time to cook through. If you’re using a sausage with a higher fat content, you may want to drain off some of the excess fat after browning to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
Q2: I don’t have orzo pasta on hand. Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes. Ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti would all work well. Keep in mind that different pasta shapes may require slightly different cooking times, so be sure to check the pasta frequently and adjust the simmering time accordingly. Also, different pasta will absorb liquid differently, so you may need to adjust the amount of chicken broth you use. Start with the recommended amount and add more as needed to ensure the pasta cooks through properly.
Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the Italian sausage and substituting it with a plant-based alternative or by simply adding more vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are all great additions to a vegetarian version of this dish. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or chickpeas for added protein and fiber. Be sure to adjust the seasoning to your liking, as the flavor profile will be slightly different without the sausage.
Q4: Can I add cheese to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Cheese is a wonderful addition to this dish and can add both flavor and creaminess. Grated Parmesan cheese is a classic choice and can be sprinkled on top before serving. You can also add a dollop of ricotta cheese to each serving for a richer and creamier texture. If you want to melt cheese into the pasta, try stirring in some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. Just be sure to stir frequently to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Q5: How do I store leftovers and reheat them?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in a skillet on the stovetop. If reheating in the microwave, add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little more chicken broth and simmer over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You may need to adjust the seasoning after reheating, as the flavors may have mellowed slightly.
