Make this Orzo with Sausage Recipe for a simple weeknight dinner. It blends small pasta, savory sausage, broth, and herbs in one pan. This recipe is easy to follow and full of flavor, without being complex. You’ll get a clear list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, and answers to common reader questions.
What You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- Orzo pasta (small rice-shaped pasta) – cooks fast and soaks up flavor.
- Sausage (Italian or smoked) – adds savory depth.
- Chicken or vegetable broth – moistens and seasons the orzo.
- Onion & garlic – base aromatics for flavor.
- Olive oil or butter – for sautéing ingredients.
Optional Add-Ins
- Tomatoes (diced or sun-dried)
- Spinach or other greens
- Parmesan, cheddar, or other cheese
- Bell peppers or broccoli
- Herbs such as parsley
Adding extras turns this into a well-rounded meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sausage
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Slice or crumble the sausage and cook until browned. This builds flavor for your base.
2. Cook Aromatics
Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.
3. Add Orzo
Stir in dry orzo. Toast lightly for 1–2 minutes. This gives it a deeper, nutty note.
4. Pour in Broth
Add broth (and tomatoes if using). Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat. Let the orzo cook until tender. Stir occasionally.
5. Combine and Serve
Stir the sausage back in if removed earlier. Add cheese or greens at the end and serve hot.
Cooking Time Estimate
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cook: 15–20 minutes
Total: about 30 minutes
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook orzo. Overcooked orzo becomes mushy. Check when it’s tender but still slightly firm.
- Brown the sausage well. Good browning adds savory flavor.
- Use warm broth. It keeps the cooking time steady and helps orzo cook evenly.
- Add greens at the end so they stay bright and tender.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Version: Stir in cream and cheese near the end of cooking.
- Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or beans.
- Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage or red pepper flakes.
- Soup Style: Add extra broth and finish with spinach for a lighter soup.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Can I use other pasta instead of orzo?
Yes. Small pastas like ditalini or mini shells work, but cooking times may vary.
How do I prevent orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally while simmering. Using enough broth and a wide pan also helps.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free orzo or pasta, and check labels on broth and sausage.
Can I prepare it ahead?
Cook the orzo slightly underdone and finish later with added broth. Reheat gently.
What to Serve With It
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
These sides add balance without extra work.
Final Thoughts
This Orzo with Sausage recipe is simple, flexible, and tasty. It cooks in one pan and adapts to what you have on hand. Use basic ingredients and a clear sequence of steps to make dinner in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknights or when you want a satisfying meal with minimal fuss.