Looking for a quick and delicious dinner option? This One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta for Busy Weeknights is the perfect solution! It’s a flavorful, hearty dish made with juicy Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce—all cooked in a single pot for easy cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Plus, with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s ideal for those hectic evenings when time is limited.

Ingredients

To make this One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta, you’ll need:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Substitutions

Don’t have all the ingredients? No problem! Here are some simple swaps:

• Italian Sausage – Swap for ground turkey, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Orzo Pasta – Use small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even rice.
• Heavy Cream – Substitute with half-and-half, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
• Parmesan Cheese – Try Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

How to Make One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Liquids

Stir in the orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy and heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Mix-Ins

Enhance your One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta with these tasty mix-ins:

• Veggies – Add spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Protein – Mix in shrimp or shredded chicken for extra protein.
• Cheese – Top with extra cheese like mozzarella for a cheesy, melty finish.

Recipe Tips

• Use a large skillet to ensure even cooking.
• Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste by adding more garlic, herbs, or spice.
• Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the texture.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version – Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
• Creamy Garlic Version – Increase garlic and add more Parmesan for an ultra-rich taste.
• Mediterranean Style – Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a fresh twist.
• Low-Carb Option – Swap orzo for cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shells work well. Just adjust the liquid as needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut milk instead of cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this pasta.

This One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta for Busy Weeknights is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Try it tonight and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort! 🍝🔥