Go Back
In today’s fast-paced world, one-pan meals have gained immense popularity among busy families and individuals seeking efficient and delicious solutions for dinner. These meals not only save time on cooking and cleanup but also allow for creativity and flavor without the need for complex techniques. One standout dish that embodies these qualities is the One-Pan Creamy Sausage & Spinach Orzo. This recipe marries the comfort of creamy pasta with the freshness of vegetables, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.

One-Pan Creamy Sausage & Spinach Orzo

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pan Creamy Sausage & Spinach Orzo recipe! Perfect for busy nights, this dish combines savory Italian sausage with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. With minimal cleanup and a burst of flavor in every bite, it's both simple and satisfying. Learn how to create this delightful one-pan meal that promises to impress family and friends alike, making dinner time enjoyable and nutritious.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 tablespoon olive oil

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

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup orzo pasta

4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)

1 cup heavy cream

3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and set the sausage aside, leaving some oil in the pan.

    Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

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

        Incorporate Cream and Vegetables: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the mixture is heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

          Add Sausage and Cheese: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

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

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