Sausage Broccoli Orzo Delight

This hearty chicken sausage and broccoli orzo dish has become my weeknight dinner superhero. It combines protein, vegetables, and pasta in one pot for a complete meal that satisfies the whole family while minimizing cleanup.

I created this recipe on a busy Wednesday when I needed something quick yet nutritious for my family. What started as a pantry cleanout has turned into our most requested weeknight meal, especially during sports season when time is precious.

Ingredients

• Orzo pasta: forms the hearty base of this dish absorbing all the savory flavors
• Olive oil: helps brown the sausage and adds a hint of richness
• Chicken sausage: provides lean protein and tons of flavor without much effort
• Broccoli florets: add nutrition and a pop of color use fresh for best texture
• Garlic: creates an aromatic foundation for the entire dish
• Chicken broth: infuses the pasta with flavor as it cooks instead of plain water
• Italian seasoning: a convenient blend that adds depth without measuring multiple spices
• Parmesan cheese: creates a creamy silky finish that brings everything together
• Fresh parsley: brightens the finished dish with color and a fresh herbaceous note

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers. Add sliced chicken sausage in a single layer allowing it to develop a golden crust before stirring. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until nicely browned on most sides which develops rich flavor compounds.

Build the aromatics:

Add the minced garlic to the browned sausage and cook for exactly 1 minute stirring constantly. This short cooking time allows the garlic to release its aroma without burning which would create bitterness.

Incorporate the broccoli:

Add broccoli florets to the pot and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the broccoli to begin softening but maintain some crispness as it will continue cooking with the pasta later.

Cook the pasta:

Add the orzo pasta chicken broth Italian seasoning salt and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine making sure no pasta is sticking to the bottom. Bring to a gentle boil then immediately reduce to a simmer. Cover with a tight fitting lid and cook for 10 to 12 minutes stirring every 3 minutes to prevent sticking.

Finish with cheese:

Remove the pot from heat once pasta is tender and most liquid has been absorbed. Stir in the Parmesan cheese continuously until it melts completely creating a silky sauce that coats every piece of pasta and vegetable.

Serve and garnish:

Spoon the hot orzo mixture into bowls and top generously with fresh chopped parsley for bright flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately while the texture is at its peak.

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The Italian seasoning blend is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power when I forgot my usual herb mix during a family vacation rental. The premade blend worked so beautifully that it has become my go to for quick weeknight cooking when measuring individual herbs feels too fussy.

Storage Tips

This orzo dish maintains its quality remarkably well in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When reheating add a splash of broth or water as the pasta will continue absorbing liquid as it sits. The flavor actually improves after a day as the ingredients have time to meld together making this perfect for planned leftovers.

Ingredient Swaps

This recipe welcomes creative substitutions based on what you have available. The chicken sausage can be replaced with Italian sausage for more robust flavor or plant based sausage for a vegetarian version. No orzo? Try small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice with adjusted cooking times. The broccoli can be swapped for any quick cooking vegetable like zucchini asparagus or bell peppers depending on seasonal availability.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish stands alone as a complete meal but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for brightness. For entertaining serve with crusty garlic bread for dipping into the savory broth. A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or light Chardonnay complements the flavors perfectly for an elevated weeknight dinner experience.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. For a creamier texture stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking. Spice lovers can add red pepper flakes for heat. During summer months fold in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil instead of parsley. The foundation remains the same while the variations are endless.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid. Heat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

→ What can I substitute for chicken sausage?

Turkey sausage works great as a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Italian pork sausage can be used for a more traditional flavor, though it will increase the fat content.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this dish. Add it directly to the pot without thawing, but be aware it may release extra moisture. You might need to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce any excess liquid.

→ Is there a gluten-free version of this dish?

Absolutely! Substitute the orzo with gluten-free orzo or another small gluten-free pasta shape like rice-shaped pasta. Just check the cooking time on the package, as gluten-free pastas often cook more quickly than traditional pasta.

→ How can I make this dish creamier?

For a creamier version, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese just before serving. You can also increase the Parmesan cheese to 3/4 cup, or add 1/2 cup of mascarpone cheese when you add the Parmesan.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

This dish is very versatile! Try adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, spinach, kale, asparagus, or zucchini. Add hearty vegetables like bell peppers with the broccoli, and quick-cooking greens like spinach in the last 2 minutes of cooking time.