If you’re craving a dish that is comforting and sophisticated, then Sausage and Sundried Tomato Orzo is the answer. This one-pot dish brings together the rich, savory flavor of sausage, the creamy tang of goat cheese, the sweet, intense flavor of sundried tomatoes, and is finished off with a heaping pile of spinach, all nestled together in tender orzo pasta. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.
The goat cheese adds a creamy texture with just the right amount of tang to complement the savory sausage. It’s a perfect pairing with the rich, earthy flavor of sundried tomatoes. This is a dish that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
The best part is how quick and easy it is. Ready in under 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests with minimal effort.
Enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 3 sweet Italian sausages, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 sweet onion, diced
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 cup chopped sundried tomatoes
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp crumbled goat cheese
Directions:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Sauté until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, about 6 minutes. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the chopped sundried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the orzo and stir for 30 seconds to coat the pasta.
- Stir in the water and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir every few minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, 6 to 8 minutes. If all the liquid is gone before the pasta is fully cooked, stir in a little more water and continue cooking.
- Stir the cooked sausage back into the orzo.
- Turn off the heat and add salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add spinach. Cover with lid and let stand 2 minutes until spinach is wilted.
- Uncover and add Parmesan cheese. Crumble goat cheese all over and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve as is with goat cheese crumbles or mix the goat cheese in to create a creamy sauce.
- Spoon the orzo into bowls and enjoy!
