Table of Contents
- Why This Easy Recipe Is a Weeknight Hero
- The Bold Flavors Behind the Dish
- Easy Recipes That Deliver Big Comfort
- How to Pair This Dish for a Complete Meal
- Tips for Customizing This One-Pot Favorite
- Why Betty Cooks Loves This Recipe
- Key Takeaways
Why This Easy Recipe Is a Weeknight Hero
When life gets busy and dinner needs to be on the table fast, this spicy Italian sausage orzo skillet is one of those easy recipes that saves the day. Packed with flavor, ready in under 30 minutes, and made in just one pot, it’s the kind of dish you’ll turn to over and over again. At Betty Cooks (www.bettycooks.com), we’re all about turning chaos into comfort food, and this recipe delivers just that.
The Bold Flavors Behind the Dish
From spicy Italian sausage to creamy tomato-based orzo, this dish packs bold, comforting flavor. Garlic, red pepper flakes, and parmesan create the perfect balance of savory heat. The richness comes together beautifully thanks to a splash of heavy cream. It’s one of those easy recipes that doesn’t feel “easy”—and we mean that in the best way possible.
Easy Recipes That Deliver Big Comfort
Sometimes, we all need a little food hug. This one-pot meal is rich, creamy, spicy, and absolutely satisfying. Best of all, it uses pantry staples and delivers the kind of flavor you’d expect from a long-simmered dish. Whether you’re craving quick dinner ideas, looking to impress guests, or simply want cozy comfort, this recipe checks every box.
How to Pair This Dish for a Complete Meal
For a simple but delicious dinner combo, serve this with a crisp green salad and crusty bread. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lemon makes a perfect match. Easy recipes like this one are versatile, and they shine just as bright solo as they do with sides.
Tips for Customizing This One-Pot Favorite
This dish is endlessly flexible. Swap spicy sausage for mild or chicken sausage. Stir in spinach, kale, or even roasted bell peppers at the end for a veggie boost. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It’s one of those chicken stirfry easy recipe–style meals you can reinvent again and again.
Why Betty Cooks Loves This Recipe
At Betty Cooks, we’re all about food that comforts, satisfies, and brings people together—without fuss. This skillet dinner checks all our boxes. It’s rich and creamy, but made with simple ingredients you likely already have. It’s one of our go-to easy recipes ninja creami fans adore because it’s fast and flavorful every single time.
Key Takeaways
- Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples
- One-pot dinner packed with creamy, spicy flavor
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends
- Customizable with different proteins or veggies
- A go-to in our dinner recipes rotation
- Comfort food made simple with easy recipes
Spicy Italian Sausage Orzo Skillet – Easy Recipes for Dinner
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage, breaking it up as it browns. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink.
- Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Stir in the orzo, diced tomatoes with juices, chicken broth, and cream.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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