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Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe

Italian Sausage Orzo Recipe

4.6 from 26 reviews

A hearty and flavorful one-pan Italian sausage orzo dish that combines savory Italian sausage with tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all cooked in a delicious tomato-based broth. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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    Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
  • 1 small yellow onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 zucchini (diced)
  • 1 and 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned.
  2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook until vegetables soften.
  3. Stir in orzo and toast briefly. Add broth, tomatoes, seasonings, and simmer.
  4. Cover and cook until orzo is tender. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan.
  5. Let sit and thicken before serving. Garnish with basil if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes.
  • You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.

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