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+ servings
Marco

One-Pan Italian Sausage Orzo: Quick, Delicious Recipe!

A quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring Italian sausage and orzo pasta, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and orzo pasta. Mix well to combine.
  5. 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.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 22gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

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.

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