Sausage Broccoli Orzo

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There’s something deeply satisfying about a skillet meal that brings together comforting pasta, savory sausage, and vibrant greens. When I first tossed together this Sausage Broccoli Orzo, I wasn’t expecting it to become such a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation — but it did. The way the juicy sausage caramelizes, the orzo soaks up all the flavor, and the broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition makes this dish a true winner.

I love meals that come together quickly but still feel hearty and wholesome, and this recipe hits that sweet spot. It’s perfect for busy evenings when I want something fulfilling without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy the evening.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Broccoli Orzo

This recipe has the kind of flavor that tastes like you worked harder than you actually did. It’s rich, garlicky, a little cheesy, and full of texture from the golden sausage bites and tender orzo. It’s flexible enough to work for both a quick family dinner and an easy meal prep option for the week. And if you’re into minimal cleanup, this one-pan wonder is a dream come true.

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

I typically go with Italian sausage for this dish — either sweet or spicy, depending on the mood. You can use pork, chicken, or turkey sausage; all work beautifully here. Just make sure to brown it well so you get that delicious crust on each bite. Pre-cooked sausage can work too, but you won’t get quite the same depth of flavor.

Options for Substitutions

This dish is wonderfully adaptable. If you’re out of orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous can fill in. No broccoli? Try spinach, kale, or zucchini. You can also swap sausage for ground meat or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. And if you want to make it creamy, stirring in a little cream or a dollop of ricotta at the end is a fantastic upgrade.

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Ingredients for this Sausage Broccoli Orzo

• Italian Sausage: This brings the dish its main flavor base, adding richness, spice, and meaty texture. Choose sweet or spicy according to your preference.
• Orzo Pasta: A rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, giving the dish a creamy, risotto-like texture.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds a healthy crunch and freshness. It’s a great way to add green veggies to a hearty dish.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic deepens the flavor and brings a classic aromatic note to the skillet.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the sausage and sauté the garlic, helping carry all the other flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the orzo with savory flavor as it cooks, making every bite more delicious.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle at the end adds umami, saltiness, and that finishing touch of creaminess.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten the final taste.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A kick of heat if you like things spicy.
• Lemon Zest or Juice (optional): Adds a bright acidity to cut through the richness.

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Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil. Remove the sausage from its casing if necessary, and break it into bite-sized pieces. Let the sausage brown on all sides, stirring occasionally. You want it golden and caramelized for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Once the sausage is cooked, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Toast

Pour the orzo into the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Stir for 1-2 minutes, allowing the orzo to toast slightly. This adds depth to the dish and helps develop flavor.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Broth

Toss in the broccoli florets and pour in the chicken broth. Give it a good stir, making sure the orzo is submerged. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasonings

Remove the lid, stir everything together, and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. If you’re using lemon juice or zest, add it now for a burst of freshness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the Sausage Broccoli Orzo into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a bit of chopped parsley if you like a fresh finish.

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How Long to Prepare the Sausage Broccoli Orzo

This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. You’ll need just 30 minutes from start to finish, and most of that time is hands-off.

• Prep Time (10 minutes): Chopping broccoli, mincing garlic, and slicing sausage (if needed) are the only prep tasks. If you buy pre-chopped broccoli or use pre-cooked sausage, this time drops even further.
• Cook Time (20 minutes): Most of the cooking time is spent browning the sausage and simmering the orzo until tender. Since everything happens in one skillet, cleanup is minimal.

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Tips for Perfect Sausage Broccoli Orzo

• Use a large, wide skillet so the orzo can cook evenly in the broth.
• Toast the orzo before adding the liquid for a nutty depth of flavor.
• Brown the sausage well — don’t rush this part. The caramelization adds a huge flavor boost.
• Cut broccoli into small, uniform florets so they cook quickly and evenly.
• Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Adding too much broth can make the orzo mushy. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust only as needed.
• Undercooked broccoli: Make sure the florets are fully submerged in the broth during simmering so they steam properly.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper. Parmesan adds saltiness, so don’t overdo it upfront.
• Overcrowding the pan: Give sausage pieces space to brown without steaming.
• Skipping the toasting step: It may seem small, but it’s essential for flavor.

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What to Serve With Sausage Broccoli Orzo?

1. Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect side for scooping up every bit of the creamy orzo.

2. Simple Green Salad

A light salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish beautifully.

3. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Their sweetness and acidity are a perfect complement to the savory sausage and broccoli.

4. Grilled Asparagus

Add even more green to your plate with a smoky charred veggie that complements the meal’s flavors.

5. A Glass of White Wine

A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well and makes this feel like a fancy dinner night.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The orzo may thicken as it sits, but a splash of broth or water when reheating brings it back to life.

Freezer: You can freeze this dish, though the texture of the orzo may change slightly. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with added liquid to refresh the texture.

Reheating: Use a skillet over low-medium heat with a bit of broth or water, or microwave in short intervals with stirring in between for even heating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! You can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, pastina, or even pearl couscous.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative or use mushrooms for a hearty, savory option.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw it first and pat dry to avoid adding excess moisture to the dish.

How can I make this creamy?

Stir in a splash of heavy cream, cream cheese, or a spoonful of ricotta at the end for a luscious texture.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! If your kids don’t like spicy sausage, use mild Italian sausage. You can also chop the broccoli smaller to blend it in more.

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Conclusion

Sausage Broccoli Orzo is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: fast, flavorful, and nourishing. With just one pan, a handful of ingredients, and barely 30 minutes, you get a dish that tastes like pure comfort. It’s endlessly flexible and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Once you try it, I promise it’ll earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation.

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