Creamy Sausage Orzo

Ingredients

• 1 pound mild Italian sausage, casings removed (454 g)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced (180 g)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (20 g)
• 2 cups dry orzo (400 g)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (411 g)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock (960 g)
• 5 ounces baby spinach (142 g)
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan (75 g)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare. Cut and measure all ingredients. Reserve the spinach, cream, and Parmesan for the final stage. Keep the main sausage pieces close in thickness, patting away excess surface moisture when needed for browning.
2. Arrange. Load the sturdy ingredients and measured liquid or oil into the cream enameled Dutch oven. Use the center burner, keep ingredients spread across the pot base, and scrape the corners where pasta can collect. Keep quick-cooking additions out until their directed interval.
3. Cook. Bring the liquid to a lively simmer, then lower the heat and cook uncovered for 15 to 25 minutes. Stir from the bottom every few minutes. Stop when the decisive cue appears: tender orzo in a glossy sauce that leaves a brief trail behind the spoon.
4. Finish. Add the spinach, cream, and Parmesan. Fold, toss, or thicken gently until the finish is even. Stop when the food shows tender orzo in a glossy sauce that leaves a brief trail behind the spoon; adjust sauce consistency with a small measured liquid addition only if needed.
5. Serve. Divide the main pieces first, then spoon vegetables and sauce around them. Check the thickest portion separately. Serve promptly, keeping any crisp toppings or citrus separate until the plate reaches the table.

Notes

• Use similar-thickness pieces so the finish window stays narrow and the early checkpoint remains meaningful.
• The stated cook allowance includes every pressure release, sauce adjustment, or final thickening interval.
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly in shallow covered containers, and add fresh herbs, citrus, or crisp finishing ingredients only after reheating.

Nutrition Facts