Italian Sausage Orzo – Easy Pasta Dinner Recipe for Family

Italian Sausage Orzo is one of those Italian Sausage Recipes that checks all the boxes—fast, creamy, comforting, and family-approved. Seriously, who doesn’t love a hearty pasta dish that comes together in just one pot? When Dinner Time rolls around and you’re tired of the same old rotation, this recipe is your ticket to a no-stress evening.

Here’s the deal: we’re taking Orzo, that tiny rice-shaped pasta, and treating it a little like risotto. Only this version is way less fussy. Instead of standing over the stove stirring endlessly, you get a creamy, flavorful dish in about 30 minutes flat. IMO, that’s a win. Add in savory Italian sausage, baby spinach for a sneaky veggie boost, and a rich Parmesan sauce, and boom—you’ve got one of the best Main Dish Recipes you’ll ever try.

Want another reason to love it? Everything cooks in a single pot. Yep, no juggling pans or piling up dishes in the sink. That’s the kind of weeknight magic I can get behind. Plus, the kids will happily dig in (always a plus when veggies are involved).

Texture-wise, the orzo turns perfectly al dente, soaking up all the sausage-y, garlicky goodness along the way. This dish is basically comfort food meets easy weeknight hack. Call it one of those Pasta Dinner Recipes that feels fancy enough to serve guests, but simple enough to whip up after a long day.

If you’re a fan of cozy Italian Dishes or on the hunt for new Sausage Recipes, this one’s gonna earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Because honestly? I Love Food, but I don’t love spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe proves you don’t have to.

Italian Sausage Orzo – Easy Pasta Dinner Recipe for Family

A cozy weeknight meal that’s creamy, hearty, and ready in just half an hour.

Author: Aleda | Category: Dinner | Servings: 6

⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🍳 Cook Time: 20 minutes | ⏰ Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (whipping cream works too)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 cups baby spinach, tightly packed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Place the sausage into a large pot or Dutch oven. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.
2. Add the onion and sauté for another 5 minutes, or until the sausage is golden and the onion is soft.
3. Stir in the garlic, red pepper flakes, and orzo. Let it toast for about 30 seconds to build flavor.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and cream. Once the liquid begins to simmer, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently so the orzo doesn’t stick. The liquid should bubble gently, not boil aggressively.
5. Remove the pot from heat. Mix in the Parmesan and spinach, then cover the pot for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the spinach wilts.
6. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Serve hot and enjoy right away.

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