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In the whirlwind of modern life, finding time to prepare a delicious, wholesome meal can often feel like a Herculean task. Enter the Sizzling Sausage & Orzo Delight—a vibrant, one-pot dish that not only promises a burst of flavors but also cuts down on cleanup time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. This dish harmoniously combines savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables, resulting in a satisfying meal that caters to both taste and convenience.

One-Pot Italian Sausage and Orzo Pasta for Busy Weeknights

Discover the Sizzling Sausage & Orzo Delight, the perfect one-pot meal that brings together savory Italian sausage, tender orzo, and a mix of fresh vegetables for a burst of flavor. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish offers easy preparation and minimal cleanup. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, it's a family-friendly favorite that balances nutrition and taste. Try it for a cozy dinner that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)

1 cup orzo pasta

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

4 cups chicken broth

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups fresh spinach

2 tbsp olive oil

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Mince the garlic and set aside.

    Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casings and crumble it into the pot. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage, leaving the drippings in the pot.

      Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the same pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and zucchini, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

        Combine Ingredients: Return the browned sausage to the pot. Add the orzo pasta, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.

          Cook the Orzo: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth.

            Add Spinach and Serve: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings