Description
One-Pot Orzo with Sausage, Spinach and Corn is a cozy and flavorful Italian-inspired main course featuring savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, sweet corn, and fresh spinach all cooked together in one skillet. This easy weeknight meal combines fragrant spices, fresh vegetables, and creamy Parmesan cheese for a hearty dish with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil, if needed
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Pasta and Seasonings
- 1 ½ cups dry orzo
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns to get a flavorful base.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add orzo and seasonings: Stir the dry orzo, chicken broth, corn, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the skillet. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the orzo: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes. Stir frequently until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add spinach and tomatoes: Stir in the baby spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts down and everything is heated through.
- Finish the dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice to add creaminess and brightness.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top before serving. Enjoy your flavorful one-pot meal!
Notes
- Turkey or chicken sausage can be used instead of pork sausage for a leaner option.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
- If the orzo becomes too thick during cooking, stir in a splash of warm chicken broth to loosen it up.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a little broth to restore creamy texture before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
