This one-pot wonder is packed with tasty Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant veggies. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a good meal fast!
No need for a mountain of dishes either—everything cooks in one pot! I love how the flavors come together, and the leftovers (if there are any) are just as yummy the next day!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil: This oil is perfect for sautéing and adds a nice flavor. If you’re out, vegetable or canola oil works too. In a pinch, melted butter can be used for a richer taste.
Italian sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’d like a lighter option, chicken or turkey sausage is a great substitution, which still gives good flavor.
Orzo pasta: Orzo gives the dish a nice texture. However, if you can’t find it, any small pasta like ditalini or even rice can work, though the cooking time might vary.
Heavy cream: This adds richness, but you can substitute it with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just note that the flavor will differ slightly.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for melting, but if you have the pre-grated kind, that’s fine too. Nutritional yeast is a wonderful dairy-free alternative that offers a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Get the Sausage Just Right?
Cooking the sausage properly is crucial for flavor and texture. Start by heating your pot and adding the olive oil before adding the sausage. It’s essential to break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This way, it browns evenly and forms delicious bits that enhance the overall taste.
- Brown the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, and ensure it’s fully cooked.
- If there’s too much fat, you can drain some to prevent the dish from being greasy.
One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful one-pot meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting all your ingredients ready and then about 20 minutes cooking everything together, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Italian Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You want it to brown nicely and be fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra fat in the pot, feel free to drain some of it off, but keep a little for flavor!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Next, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes nice and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for another minute—this will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
3. Toast the Orzo Pasta:
Now, it’s time to add the orzo pasta to the pot. Stir it in and let it toast lightly for about 1-2 minutes, which helps bring out its flavor.
4. Add Chicken Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Make sure to stir occasionally as it cooks, letting it simmer until the orzo is tender and the sauce thickens—this should take around 10 minutes.
5. Mix in Cream and Seasonings:
After the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and season with a good pinch of salt and pepper. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s all heated through, making it creamy and delicious!
6. Add Parmesan and Serve:
Finally, take the pot off the heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it’s melted and everything is combined nicely. Serve your lovely one-pot meal immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a bit of color. Enjoy every bite!
## FAQ
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with another small pasta like ditalini or even mini penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may require slightly different cooking durations.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it becomes too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, try using nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Sausage?
Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great leaner alternative. Just add some additional herbs and spices, like fennel seed or crushed red pepper, to mimic the flavor of Italian sausage. Cook until browned and then proceed with the recipe as usual.
