Italian Sausage Orzo is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the creamy texture of orzo pasta. Here's a recipe that serves 4-6 people:
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup orzo pasta
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
**Alternate ingredients for variations:**
* Use sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor
* Add 1-2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini) for added nutrition
* Substitute chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor
* Add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil for an authentic Italian flavor
* Use goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangier taste
* Add 1/4 cup chopped anchovies for a salty, umami flavor
* Use red wine instead of chicken broth for a deeper flavor
* Add 1/2 cup cooked mushrooms or spinach for added texture and nutrients
**Cooking steps:**
1. **Cook the orzo:** Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the orzo pasta and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender and creamy. Drain and set aside.
2. **Sear the Italian sausage:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. **Soften the onion and garlic:** Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. **Add the tomatoes and oregano:** Add the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
5. **Combine the orzo and sausage mixture:** Add the cooked orzo pasta, Italian sausage, and tomato mixture to a large serving dish. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. **Serve and garnish:** Transfer the Italian Sausage Orzo to individual plates or bowls. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
**Tips for making Italian Sausage Orzo tastier:**
* Use high-quality Italian sausage for a richer flavor.
* Don't overcook the orzo, as it can become mushy and sticky.
* Use chicken broth instead of water for added depth of flavor.
* Add more garlic and oregano for an intenser Italian flavor.
* Serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a dollop of marinara sauce for added flavor.
* Make ahead: Cook the orzo and sausage mixture separately, then combine and reheat before serving.
**Variations:**
* **Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo:** Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for an extra kick.
* **Mediterranean Italian Sausage Orzo:** Add 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
* **Vegan Italian Sausage Orzo:** Substitute vegan Italian sausage and vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
* **Breakfast Italian Sausage Orzo:** Add scrambled eggs and crumbled feta cheese for a breakfast-inspired twist.
Enjoy your delicious Italian Sausage Orzo!
Must Tried Recipes :
