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When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that is both delicious and easy to prepare can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Enter the One-Pan Creamy Sausage & Spinach Orzo—a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also simplifies dinner prep and cleanup. This comforting meal combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with fresh vegetables and creamy orzo, all cooked in a single pan. It’s an ideal solution for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a satisfying meal with minimal fuss.

One-Pan Creamy Sausage & Spinach Orzo

Discover the perfect weeknight dinner with this One-Pan Creamy Sausage & Spinach Orzo recipe. Combining savory Italian sausage, vibrant spinach, and creamy orzo, this dish simplifies meal prep while satisfying your taste buds. Cooked all in one pan, it offers ease and flavor, making cleanup a breeze. Packed with nutritious ingredients and customizable for dietary needs, this comforting meal is sure to become a family favorite for busy nights or gatherings.
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Ingredients
  

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound Italian sausage (choose between spicy or sweet, casings removed)

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup orzo pasta

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Sausage: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté until the sausage is evenly browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there's excess fat, carefully drain it from the pan, leaving a little oil for flavor. Set the browned sausage aside in a bowl.

    Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet where the sausage was cooked, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is fragrant.

      Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta and let it toast in the skillet for about 1 minute, which will enhance its flavor. Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed.

        Incorporate Cream and Vegetables: Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, and italian seasoning. Continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the mixture is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

          Add Sausage and Cheese: Return the sautéed sausage to the skillet, mixing it with the orzo. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the dish becomes creamy.

            Serve: Spoon the creamy sausage and spinach orzo into bowls or onto plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delightful one-pan meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4