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Two pasta bowls on a kitchen counter with pasta in each bowl, broccoli rabe, and grated parmesan cheese.

Italian Sausage Orzo


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 3 reviews

  • Author: Jackie Shao
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Description

This Italian sausage orzo is a lighter and brighter easy weeknight take on a dish with classic Italian flavors.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 3 ounces of brown button mushrooms
  • 1/2 bunch of broccoli rabe (about 8 ounces)
  • 2 stems of green onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 lb italian sausage
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Red pepper flake
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 cups chicken broth + another 1/4 cup as needed
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, plus more more finishing

Instructions

  1. Prep the vegetables – slice the mushrooms into ¼” thick slices, cut the broccoli rabe leaves into 2” pieces, and thinly slice the broccoli rabe stems. Also mince the garlic and slice the green onions. 

  2. Heat a medium sized pot on medium high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the ½ lb of sausage – brown and break this up into bite sized pieces. Once slightly brown, about 2-3 minutes, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook until both the sausage and mushrooms are caramelized (golden brown edges), about another 5-6 minutes. Add the chopped scallions, minced garlic, and red chili flake and give everything a stir. 

  3. To the pan, add the orzo and another tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Give everything a stir, then add in the chicken broth and broccoli rabe stems. Add in a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let this come to a simmer, reduce meat to medium, cover and cook for 10-12 minutes. 

  4. Once the orzo is cooked (I always like to taste a piece after 10 minutes), there should be a bit of liquid left. If not, go ahead and add another splash of water or chicken broth. Add in the broccoli rabe leaves and ⅓ cup of grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything together, cover and cook for another 2 minutes. 

  5. Taste, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired, plate, garnish with more parmesan cheese, and serve.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian