This Easy One-Pot Sausage Spinach Orzo is a quick and tasty meal! With savory sausage, fresh spinach, and tender orzo, it’s all cooked in one pot for less mess.
You’ll love how simple this dish is to make, plus it’s super filling! I like to sprinkle some cheese on top for extra yumminess. Who doesn’t enjoy an easy cleanup after a delicious dinner? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish with its robust flavor. Choose mild for a family-friendly meal, or spicy for a kick. If you can’t find Italian sausage, ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a great choice because it cooks quickly and pairs well with the flavors. If you don’t have orzo, substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice, but cooking times may vary.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. For a different flavor, you can use kale or Swiss chard. Just chop them up, but keep in mind that they may need a bit longer to soften.
Parmesan Cheese: This brings a creamy texture and depth. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or omit it altogether.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Sausage Evenly?
Cooking the sausage well is key to this dish. Break it up into small pieces to help it cook evenly. Use a wooden spoon to stir it frequently, letting it get nice and browned. This brings out the flavor and keeps the texture nice and crumbly.
- Heat olive oil before adding sausage to prevent sticking.
- Cook on medium-high heat to allow for browning without burning.
- Stir often, breaking it apart for even cooking.
Taking these steps will ensure your sausage is delicious every time!
Easy One-Pot Sausage Spinach Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pot meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making it ready to enjoy in just 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or wide pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes until the onion is softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the orzo pasta and stir it well to coat it in the sausage mixture. Then, add the chicken broth, bringing the entire mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer and Absorb:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
5. Add Spinach:
After the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook for about 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful, easy one-pot sausage spinach orzo!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative for added fiber and nutrients. Just keep in mind that it may require a slightly longer cooking time, so check the package instructions for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Sausage?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s properly cooked through!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, just swap the sausage for a meat-free alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also bolster the flavor with additional sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
