When you’re looking for a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and packs a ton of flavor, One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is the perfect choice. This dish combines the savory taste of Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a medley of vegetables, all cooked together in one pan for an easy cleanup. With its balance of protein, veggies, and carbs, it’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone who prefers quick and easy meals, One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta have got you covered. It’s incredibly simple to make, and all you need is one skillet to create this mouthwatering dish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this flavorful and filling recipe, along with tips for serving and storing.
Why You’ll Love One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
One of the standout features of One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is that it requires minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The prep time is minimal, and cooking takes just over 20 minutes. Plus, everything is cooked in a single pan, which means less cleanup afterward – a win-win situation for any home cook.
Flavor-Packed and Satisfying
The combination of Italian sausage and orzo pasta provides a perfect blend of flavors. The sausage is rich and savory, while the orzo soaks up the delicious juices from the sausage and vegetables, creating a satisfying and flavorful bite. The addition of fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a healthy boost, while the diced tomatoes and seasonings bring everything together with a touch of Italian flair.
Customizable for Any Taste
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the level of spice by choosing sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your preferences. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to make it your own. Additionally, the use of fresh spinach adds a burst of vitamins, but you can swap it out for other leafy greens like kale or arugula if you prefer.
Ingredients for One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
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1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy) – The star of the dish, this provides the savory base of flavor for your pasta. Choose sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor or spicy for a little extra kick.
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1 cup orzo pasta – A small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs all the flavors in the dish.
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1 bell pepper (any color), diced – Bell peppers add color and a mild sweetness to the dish.
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1 yellow onion, chopped – Onion brings a savory sweetness and depth of flavor to the recipe.
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3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the overall flavor and adds aromatic warmth.
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14 oz canned diced tomatoes – The juicy tomatoes add moisture and a touch of acidity, which balances out the richness of the sausage.
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2 cups fresh spinach – Fresh spinach adds a burst of green and essential nutrients to the dish.
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2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – The broth provides the necessary liquid to cook the orzo and adds a savory depth of flavor without being overly salty.
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1 tsp dried basil – Basil is a classic Italian herb that brings a fresh, aromatic flavor to the dish.
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1 tsp dried oregano – Oregano is another staple herb in Italian cooking, adding a savory and slightly peppery flavor.
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Olive oil – For sautéing the sausage and vegetables, olive oil adds a rich, smooth flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
Making One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is simple, with just a few steps that yield a satisfying and delicious meal. Let’s go through the process.
1. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles with a spoon or spatula. Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. The sausage will render its fat, which will provide great flavor for the rest of the dish.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Once the sausage is fully cooked, add the diced bell pepper and chopped onion to the skillet. Stir to combine with the sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. The garlic should not burn, so keep an eye on it.
3. Add Orzo and Tomatoes
Next, stir in the orzo pasta, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried basil, and dried oregano. Let the mixture cook for 2 minutes, allowing the orzo to absorb some of the flavors from the sausage, vegetables, and tomatoes. This helps the pasta to soak up the rich, savory juices from the other ingredients, making every bite full of flavor.
4. Simmer with Chicken Broth
Now, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the dish simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth. Stir occasionally to ensure that the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
5. Add Fresh Spinach
Once the orzo is tender, stir in the fresh spinach. The spinach will wilt down quickly, so give it a quick stir to combine. Let the spinach cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until it’s fully wilted and incorporated into the dish. At this point, your One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is ready to serve!
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta hot, either by itself or with a side of crusty bread for dipping. The orzo will be perfectly cooked, and the sausage will add a savory richness, making each bite irresistible. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
While this recipe is easy to follow, here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
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Use good quality sausage: The sausage is the key ingredient in this recipe, so using high-quality sausage will make a huge difference in flavor. Look for sausage with a good balance of seasoning and fat content.
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Stir the orzo occasionally: Orzo can stick to the bottom of the pan if not stirred regularly. Be sure to stir the pasta every few minutes to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.
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Add extra veggies: If you’d like to sneak in more vegetables, feel free to add zucchini, mushrooms, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes. These can be added with the bell pepper and onion to cook along with the sausage.
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Make it spicy: If you like things spicy, use spicy Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish for an extra kick.
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Customize your herbs: Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste. Fresh basil or parsley can be added at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is a complete meal in itself, but if you’d like to round it out, here are some great serving ideas:
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Side Salad: Pair this pasta with a simple side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sausage and orzo.
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Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread is always a welcome addition. The crunchy, buttery bread pairs perfectly with the savory pasta.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts would complement the dish beautifully and add more nutrients to your meal.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s also perfect for meal prep, as it can be portioned out for lunches or future dinners. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the pasta.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
While orzo doesn’t freeze as well as other types of pasta, you can freeze this dish for up to a month. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then heat it on the stove, adding more chicken broth if necessary to restore its creamy texture.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you enjoyed making One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta, here are some more delicious recipes you might want to try:
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One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta – A quick and flavorful pasta dish with spinach and tomatoes that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
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Honey BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta – This creamy and savory pasta combines BBQ chicken with crispy bacon and ranch flavors for a satisfying meal.
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Creamy Chicken Carbonara – A rich and indulgent chicken pasta recipe with creamy sauce, perfect for pasta lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta
1. Can I use a different type of sausage for One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta?
Yes, you can absolutely swap out the Italian sausage for other types, such as chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even chorizo for a spicier flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly if necessary.
2. Can I make One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its moisture.
3. Is it possible to make One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by swapping out regular orzo for gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the cooking instructions for the gluten-free pasta, as the cooking time may vary slightly.
4. Can I freeze One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta for later?
While orzo doesn’t freeze as well as some other pasta types, you can still freeze the dish. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop with extra chicken broth if needed.
Conclusion
One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is a simple yet flavorful meal that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. With its hearty sausage, tender orzo, and fresh vegetables, it’s a dish that pleases both the taste buds and the busy cook who wants a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or meal prep for the week ahead, this dish offers everything you need in one pan.
So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta: Quick & Easy Meal
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta is a quick, delicious, and hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with savory Italian sausage, fresh veggies, and tender orzo pasta, it’s a complete meal made in just one pan. Flavorful and easy to make, this recipe is a family favorite that doesn’t require much prep time.
Ingredients
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1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
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1 cup orzo pasta
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1 bell pepper (any color), diced
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1 yellow onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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14 oz canned diced tomatoes
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2 cups fresh spinach
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2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
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Cook Sausage: In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon.
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Sauté Veggies: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
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Add Orzo & Tomatoes: Stir in orzo pasta, diced tomatoes (with juice), basil, and oregano. Cook for 2 minutes to let the flavors combine.
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Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
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Finish with Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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For a spicier version, opt for spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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You can swap out the spinach for other greens like kale or arugula.
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This recipe can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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If you’d like to make it gluten-free, swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta, sausage and orzo pasta, one-pan dinner, Italian sausage recipe, easy pasta recipe, family-friendly dinner, quick weeknight meal