Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a dish that'll make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds! This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Sausage is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, hearty flavors of Italian sausage with the luxurious creaminess of Parmesan and a hint of fresh spinach. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's so indulgent, you'll want to keep the recipe a secret – but trust us, you'll want to share this gastronomic masterpiece with everyone you know!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and break the meat into small crumbles using your hands or a wooden spoon.
- Heat a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it into smaller pieces as it browns, until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan.
- In the same pan, add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the pasta with the remaining fat and develop a light golden color.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the orzo, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes or until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the orzo becomes creamy and tender.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely and incorporates into the sauce.
- Fold in the chopped spinach and cooked sausage, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy your creamy Parmesan orzo with sausage.
Tips
- Sausage Selection: Choose a high-quality Italian sausage for maximum flavor. Spicy or mild, the choice is yours!
- Toasting Technique: Don't skip toasting the orzo! This crucial step develops a nutty flavor and helps the pasta absorb liquid more evenly.
- Cream Control: Add cream gradually and stir constantly to prevent separation and achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Spinach Swap: No spinach? Try kale, arugula, or even frozen mixed vegetables as a delicious alternative.
- One-Pan Wonder: Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor development.
- Resting is Key: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld together.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 110mg
