1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
1.5 cups dry orzo pasta
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3.5 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. If there is excessive grease, you can drain some off, but leave about a tablespoon for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo: Stir the dry orzo pasta into the meat and onion mixture. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Toasting the orzo slightly adds a wonderful nutty flavor and helps the pasta maintain a good texture during the simmering process.
Step 4: Simmer the Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5: Finish and Serve: Remove the lid and stir in the fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. The heat from the pasta will wilt the spinach and melt the cheese into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately while hot.