Description
This Sausage Broccoli Orzo Bowl is a quick, hearty, and healthy dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Juicy sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo make it a comforting and balanced meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked, about 6 oz)
- 12 oz Italian sausage (mild or hot, casing removed)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces, about 8 oz)
- 1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Zest and juice from 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
- Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring often.
- Stir in broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and starting to soften. If using frozen broccoli, cook 1-2 minutes longer and drain excess liquid.
- Add orzo to the pan and stir to coat in sausage fat. Toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 10-11 minutes. Add more broth or water if needed.
- Turn off heat. Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest and juice (if using), and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with remaining olive oil.
- Serve hot in bowls, topped with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with gluten-free small pasta, rice, or quinoa. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Add extra veggies like spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for variety. Leftovers keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 19
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 41
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 21
Keywords: sausage broccoli orzo, easy dinner, 30 minute meal, healthy pasta, weeknight dinner, one pan meal, Italian sausage, broccoli recipe, orzo bowl, family dinner