Description

One pan, bold flavors, and under 30 minutes to a comforting dinner—this Sausage Broccoli Orzo is your answer to “what’s for dinner?” Creamy orzo pasta meets crispy browned sausage and vibrant broccoli in a cozy skillet that’s perfect for busy nights or laid-back weekends. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a family, this easy recipe packs protein, veggies, and comfort into every bite. Perfect for anyone searching quick dinner ideas, cozy comfort food, or weeknight meal solutions, this dish hits the mark on both taste and time.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

12 ounces Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced into rounds

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups chicken broth

2 cups broccoli florets

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage rounds and cook until browned and crisp on both sides. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Stir in orzo and toast for 2 minutes, coating it well in the garlic butter.

4. Add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add broccoli florets, cover the skillet, and steam for 3–4 minutes until tender.

6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, add Parmesan, lemon zest (if using), and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Serve hot and enjoy your one-pan comfort meal.

Notes

Toasting the orzo before adding broth boosts the nutty flavor and keeps it from getting mushy.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy texture and bold flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 480
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 870mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: quick dinner, easy orzo recipe, sausage pasta, one-pan meals