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Hearty Sausage Broccoli Orzo Recipe Perfect for Busy Weeknights - Featured Image

Hearty Sausage Broccoli Orzo Recipe Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Learn how to make delicious Sausage Broccoli Orzo. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that bring out fresh, vibrant flavors without complicating the process. I always reach for quality sausage — preferably something with a bit of seasoning — because it sets the tone for the whole dish. Fresh broccoli is a must; I love how it adds color, crunch, and nutrients. For the orzo, I opt for traditional pasta, but whole wheat or gluten-free options work well too. Using simple ingredients that I trust helps me keep this meal wholesome and tasty every time.

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Remove the cooked sausage from the pan and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step adds a lovely nutty flavor.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is almost tender.
  7. Add the broccoli florets and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Stir to combine and cook uncovered for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors!

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Sausage Broccoli Orzo, recipe, cooking, food