Sausage Broccoli Orzo

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If you’re after a dinner that’s both comforting and quick, this Sausage Broccoli Orzo ticks all the boxes. It’s hearty enough to satisfy a hungry family and light enough to enjoy any night of the week. Juicy sausage and tender broccoli come together with creamy orzo for a skillet meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying.

One-pot meals are a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and this one has that magical balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs in each spoonful. The orzo soaks up all the flavor from the browned sausage and garlic, while the broccoli adds freshness and color. It feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Broccoli Orzo

This dish is comfort food with a nutritious edge. The combination of smoky sausage and vibrant broccoli makes it hearty without being too heavy. It’s a one-skillet recipe, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. The orzo gives it a creamy, risotto-like texture without the constant stirring. Plus, it’s family-friendly and customizable.

What Kind of Sausage Works Best?

This recipe is incredibly flexible when it comes to sausage. You can use sweet Italian sausage for a mild, savory flavor or go with spicy sausage if you like some heat. Chicken or turkey sausage are great lighter alternatives. Just make sure to use sausage that browns well in a skillet, which gives the dish extra depth and flavor.

Ingredients for the Sausage Broccoli Orzo

This recipe uses everyday ingredients that create a perfect harmony of texture and flavor.

Sausage
Essential for the rich, meaty base of the dish. Choose your favorite style—Italian, spicy, or mild.

Orzo
A rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor like a dream.

Broccoli
Adds color, crunch, and a healthy veggie punch. Fresh or frozen both work.

Garlic
Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.

Chicken broth
Used to cook the orzo and deepen the savory flavor.

Parmesan cheese
For a creamy, salty finish that ties everything together.

Olive oil
Used for sautéing and flavor layering.

Salt and pepper
To season and balance all the ingredients.

How To Make the Sausage Broccoli Orzo

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Orzo

Stir in the garlic and let it cook until fragrant. Then, add the orzo and toast it for a minute to build flavor.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, stir, and bring to a simmer. Let the orzo cook, stirring occasionally, until nearly tender.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Add broccoli florets to the skillet. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and bright green.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Season

Stir in the Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot straight from the skillet.

How to Serve and Store Sausage Broccoli Orzo

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet while it’s creamy and steamy. It comfortably feeds four people, though you can double the batch for meal prep or leftovers. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture.

What to Serve With Sausage Broccoli Orzo?

Garlic Bread

Crispy garlic bread adds a buttery crunch and is perfect for scooping up any creamy orzo left in the bowl.

Green Salad

A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette provides freshness to contrast the creamy orzo.

Roasted Carrots

A sweet and earthy side that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.

Baked Parmesan Zucchini

A cheesy vegetable dish that makes the meal feel extra comforting.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and tangy, this salad balances the warm, rich flavors of the orzo.

Creamed Spinach

A velvety side dish that adds extra greens to your plate.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Warm, crusty bread is never out of place with pasta.

A Glass of White Wine

Something dry like a Pinot Grigio makes a simple meal feel special.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re all about easy, cozy pasta dinners, check out these favorites from Mia Plates:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for rich and cheesy comfort.
• One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta when you want something smokey and hearty.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a unique twist on a classic favorite.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for quick, creamy satisfaction.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you’re craving comfort on a plate.

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Let me know how yours turned out! Did you go spicy or mild with the sausage? Add a twist of lemon or a dash of chili flakes?

I love hearing your versions and answering questions—let’s cook better together.

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