Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo – Easy One-Pot Dinner

Enjoy a flavorful and comforting Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo that’s quick to make in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or family meals.

Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo

If you’re craving a rich, spicy, and comforting meal, this Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo is exactly what you need. This one-pot dinner blends the bold flavors of spicy Italian sausage with tender orzo pasta in a savory tomato broth. It’s a perfect weeknight recipe that comes together quickly and requires minimal cleanup.

Making Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo ensures you get a hearty meal with a touch of heat and creamy Parmesan finish in every bite. Even better, it’s versatile and easy to customize based on what you have at home. Want to try other easy weeknight dinners? Check those out for more ideas.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish is a crowd-pleaser thanks to its simple ingredients and bold taste. The one-pot method means you spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. The spicy Italian sausage adds just the right amount of heat, balanced by fresh spinach and Parmesan. Perfect for busy weekdays or casual dinner gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (casings removed) – you can use mild sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for heat
• 1 small onion, diced – substitute with shallots if desired
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta – substitute with other small pasta shapes
• 3 cups chicken broth – vegetable broth works for a lighter version
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes – fire-roasted adds smoky flavor
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups fresh spinach – kale or swiss chard can be substituted
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage. Cook while breaking into pieces until browned, about 6-7 minutes.
2. Add diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until onions are soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in orzo pasta and stir to combine. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Stir and bring mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. Stir fresh spinach into the pan and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your spicy Italian sausage orzo!

For more hearty meals, try our one-pot pasta recipes and explore easy Italian-inspired dishes at the Food Network.

Expert Tips

To keep your Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo from sticking, stir occasionally during simmering. If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before it’s tender, add a splash of broth or water. For milder heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. You can make this recipe ahead and store it for a quick reheat—it tastes even better the next day!

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid drying out.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth and vegan Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Lower Spice: Reduce or leave out red pepper flakes and use mild Italian sausage.

FAQ

Can I use mild Italian sausage instead of spicy in this Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo recipe?

Yes, using mild sausage is fine; just add extra red pepper flakes or chili for the heat if desired.

Is it possible to prepare this as a meal prep for the week?

Absolutely! This one-pot orzo stores well in the fridge for 3 days and reheats nicely.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?

Yes, dried basil or Italian seasoning can be added during cooking if fresh isn’t available.

What can I substitute for orzo if I can’t find it?

Other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, or even rice or quinoa, can be used as substitutes.

How spicy is the Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo?

This dish has a noticeable but moderate heat from the sausage and red pepper flakes, which you can adjust to taste.

Call to Action

Have you tried this Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with family or friends who love easy one-pot meals. Save this to your favorites for your next busy weeknight dinner.