One Pot Creamy Orzo

One-Pot Lemon Creamy Orzo with Italian Sausage

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy, casings removed)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:

• Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat.

• Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked (about 7-8 minutes). Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

• In the same pot (option to add butter here), add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

• Stir in the garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Toast the Orzo:

• Add the uncooked orzo to the pot and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This enhances the flavor of the pasta.

4. Add Liquids:

• Pour in the broth and cream. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.

5. Cook the Orzo:

• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

6. Combine Sausage and Flavorings:

• Add the cooked sausage back into the pot, along with the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.

• If using spinach, fold it in now, allowing it to wilt.

7. Adjust and Serve:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice as needed.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

This one-pot version saves time on cleanup while delivering all the creamy, lemony goodness. Let me know what you think! 🍋