Description
A quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring Italian sausage and orzo pasta, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and orzo pasta. Mix well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or chickpeas.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg