One Pot Cajun Sausage Orzo
This one pot Cajun sausage orzo is a creamy, flavor-packed dinner made with smoky sausage, tender orzo, and simple vegetables. Everything cooks together in one pan, creating a rich, slightly spicy dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but still feels satisfying and comforting.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ cups sliced smoked sausage
- ½ yellow onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ cup half-and-half
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. If needed, add a little more oil and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked orzo and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in the half-and-half, parmesan cheese, and cooked sausage. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is warmed through and creamy.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted, then stir in the lemon juice.
- Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh parsley if desired, then serve.