Description
Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner idea? This **Sausage Broccoli Orzo** is the answer to your busy weeknight prayers. A one-pan wonder packed with juicy Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant broccoli, all simmered together in savory chicken broth and finished with Parmesan cheese. It’s cozy, creamy (without cream), and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re after a hearty yet healthy meal, something to impress guests, or just easy dinner ideas, this recipe checks every box. It’s also great for meal prep and quick lunches — the ultimate **easy recipe** that delivers bold flavor in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
10 oz Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, removed from casing)
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets (small, uniform pieces)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon zest or juice (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small chunks. Let it caramelize well for extra flavor.
2. Lower the heat slightly and stir in minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add broccoli florets and pour in chicken broth. Stir everything, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove the lid, stir well, and mix in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
6. Add lemon zest or juice if desired, and stir again to combine.
7. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese or parsley if you like.
Notes
Toasting the orzo adds a subtle nutty flavor — don’t skip this step.
Cut broccoli into small, even florets to ensure they cook in time with the orzo.
For a creamy version, stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta at the end.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: quick dinner, one-pan meal, healthy sausage recipe, easy pasta, broccoli orzo