Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Orzo
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
12 mins
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Total Time
22 mins
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Servings
8
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Calories
315 kcal
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Cuisine
American
Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Orzo
Description
The recipe uses orzo pasta cooked in salted boiling water along with broccoli florets, which are briefly boiled to a bright green, tender-crisp texture. Separately, onion, green bell pepper, garlic, and sliced smoked sausage are sautéed in oil until the onion is translucent and the sausage browned, infusing the dish with smoky, savory notes. Once combined with the drained orzo and broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese and a splash of milk create a creamy, cheesy coating binding the ingredients together.
This dish serves as a filling main course or a substantial side, suitable for casual meals. It balances the smoky, meaty flavor of the sausage with fresh vegetables and the mild, creamy bite of melted cheddar. The method of cooking broccoli alongside the pasta helps maintain its texture and vibrant color.
The recipe’s straightforward technique and ingredient combination make it practical for home cooking, and the mix of textures adds appeal. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving for best flavor balance.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ Cups orzo about 3 cups if already cooked
- 2 tbs vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 onion small
- 1 clove garlic
- ½ green bell pepper
- 1 cup broccoli bite sized florets
- 1 smoked sausage about 16 oz, typically, package
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- In a large sauce pot, bring 3 quarts of water to a boil and cook the orzo per the package instructions. Don’t forget to salt the water. If you want to do something unconventional and be like me, drop the broccoli florets into the boiling pasta water for about 3 minutes while the pasta is cooking. This precooks the broccoli to just the right softness for the dish – and then you don’t have to wait for them to cook in the frying pan later. Dip them out with a slotted spoon when they turn bright green and set them aside.
- While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, dice up the onion, bell pepper and mince the garlic. Cut the sausage into disks – about ½ inch thick. Heat a large skillet with the oil on medium heat on the stove top. When the oil is hot, add the onion and bell pepper and cook until the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and the sausage. While this cooks, the orzo should be about ready. Drain the orzo per package instructions and set aside until the sausage is browned.
- When the sausage is browned, add the orzo and the pre-cooked broccoli to the skilled and cut the heat to medium low. Add the cheese and the milk. Salt and pepper to taste. You can then serve from the frying pan or turn out into a baking dish to serve.
Notes
- This recipe is straightforward and enjoyable to prepare, making it great for everyday meals.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 315 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 315kcal | 16% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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