One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage
A comforting one-pan dish featuring creamy orzo and savory chicken sausage, perfect for busy weeknights and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sausage Ingredients
- 12 ounces orzo pasta The little rice-shaped pasta soaks up sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound chicken sausage (sliced) Mild or spicy depending on your mood; lean and flavorful.
Vegetable Ingredients
- 1 medium onion (finely diced) Adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) Aromatic and essential.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) Burst of brightness; optional in winter.
- 2 cups baby spinach Wilts into the sauce for color and nutrients.
Liquid and Flavor Ingredients
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth More flavor than water; adjust salt later.
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half For creaminess; use dairy-free milk for a lighter version.
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast Parmesan for indulgent flavor; nutritional yeast adds cheesy notes without dairy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Adds warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds warmth and depth.
- to taste Salt and black pepper To taste.
Garnish (Optional)
- to taste Fresh parsley and lemon zest Brightens everything.
Instructions
Cooking the Sausage
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 4 minutes, turning once so each piece caramelizes.
Sautéing the Aromatics
- Push the sausage to the side and add the diced onion.
- Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toasting the Orzo
- Add the orzo to the pan and toast it briefly with the aromatics for 1 minute — this step deepens the flavor and prevents mushiness.
Simmering
- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine.
- Add oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Cooking the Orzo
- Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- If it looks dry, add a splash more broth.
Finishing Touches
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and Parmesan (or nutritional yeast) until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts, creating a creamy sauce that coats every pearl of pasta.
- Adjust seasoning.
- Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately with extra cheese at the table.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, use turkey sausage or smoked tofu, and for a lighter dish, you can use all milk instead of half-and-half and reduce the cheese.