Description
The Sausage & Spinach Orzo Delight is a sumptuous dish that marries the rich flavors of Italian sausage with the creamy texture of orzo pasta and the freshness of baby spinach. This one-pot meal is not only heartwarming and comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend dinners. The addition of Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes adds a delightful depth of flavor and a touch of heat that can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, or more to taste)
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cooking the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to a soup pot or Dutch oven. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Adding Onions: Stir in the chopped onions and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions have softened.
- Infusing Flavors: Add the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and orzo to the pot. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to let the garlic release its aroma.
- Adding Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and cream. Once the mixture starts to bubble, reduce heat to medium or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Continue cooking for 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent the orzo from sticking.
- Finishing Touches: Remove the pot from the heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh spinach. Cover the pot and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce has thickened to your liking. Season with salt and pepper.