Description
This Italian Sausage Pasta is a creamy, comforting one-pot meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Savory Italian sausage cooked with aromatics and tender orzo pasta is simmered in a flavorful blend of chicken broth and light cream, then finished with fresh baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's a delightful dish that combines bold flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 16 oz Italian sausage (casing removed)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 onion (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (crushed)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (roughly chopped)
- 2 cups baby spinach (fresh)
- Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Pasta and Liquids
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 1 cup light cream
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan (freshly grated)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the sausage: Remove the Italian sausage from its casing, breaking it apart to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
- Cook the sausage: Place the sausage meat into a Dutch oven or a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring and breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté the onions and aromatics: Add the chopped onions to the skillet with the sausage, and cook until the onions soften. Then stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and orzo pasta. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds to let the flavors meld.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and light cream. When the mixture begins to bubble, reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the orzo to cook and the sauce to thicken gently.
- Finish with fresh ingredients: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, freshly grated parmesan, and baby spinach until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the creamy sauce.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded parmesan and chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your rich and flavorful Italian Sausage Pasta!
Notes
- This recipe uses light cream to maintain creaminess with less fat.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy depth; choose oil-packed for more flavor.
- For a spicier dish, increase red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use chicken broth or stock for a richer base; vegetable broth can be a substitute if preferred.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently to maintain creaminess.