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+ servings

Garlic & Parmesan Sausage Orzo

A creamy and flavorful dish combining tender orzo pasta, savory sausage, and a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo
  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
  • 4 cups chicken broth low sodium recommended
For the Sausage
  • 1 lb Italian sausage casings removed
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream room temperature
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Method
 

Cook the Orzo
  1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. This will infuse the orzo with flavor as it cooks.
  2. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse, as this will wash away the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
Prepare the Sausage
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will help to brown the sausage and add flavor.
  2. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Ensure there are no pink bits remaining.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Combine and Finish the Dish
  1. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the sausage and garlic. Allow it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  2. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. This will create a creamy sauce that coats the orzo.
  3. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Season with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For a spicier version, consider using hot Italian sausage. You can also add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

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