This hearty and flavorful one-pot orzo dish is the perfect weeknight dinner—simple, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors. Imagine tender orzo infused with the savory richness of sausage, the sweetness of corn, and the fresh vibrancy of spinach. All cooked together in one pot for an easy meal with minimal cleanup. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love One-Pot Orzo with Sausage, Spinach and Corn
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
One-Pot Wonder: No need for multiple dishes—everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, sweet corn, and fresh spinach creates a delicious balance of taste and texture.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Swap the sausage for chicken, turkey, or a plant-based alternative to fit your dietary needs.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy orzo and sweet pops of corn.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with simple pantry staples, but the result is packed with flavor. Let’s break it down:
Orzo: The perfect pasta for this dish, absorbing all the flavors while maintaining a delightful texture.
Sausage: Adds a rich, savory depth. Use your favorite variety—Italian, spicy, or even chicken sausage.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a boost of color and nutrients. It wilts beautifully into the dish.
Corn: Sweet and juicy corn kernels bring a touch of natural sweetness.
Garlic and Onion: These aromatics build the dish’s foundation with incredible flavor.
Chicken Broth: Infuses the orzo with a rich, savory base as it cooks.
Parmesan Cheese: A touch of Parmesan ties everything together with a creamy, umami-rich finish.
Instructions
Cook the Sausage: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, then remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the garlic and onion. Cook until fragrant and softened.
Add the Orzo and Corn: Stir in the orzo and corn, letting them toast slightly for extra depth of flavor.
Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Stir in the Spinach and Sausage: Return the sausage to the pot and stir in the spinach, allowing it to wilt.
Finish with Parmesan: Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy and well combined.
Serve and Enjoy: Spoon into bowls and enjoy this comforting, flavor-packed meal!
How to Serve One-Pot Orzo with Sausage, Spinach and Corn
This dish is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to enhance your meal:
Fresh Salad: Serve with a simple side salad for a fresh contrast.
Crusty Bread: A slice of warm bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or even feta can elevate the flavors.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Chop and measure ingredients in advance to speed up cooking time.
Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for extra heat.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to [time duration]. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Double the Batch: This dish is perfect for meal prep—make extra and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
FAQ Section
Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?
Yes! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous work well.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative or add mushrooms for a hearty touch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to [time]. Reheat with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but the texture of the orzo may change slightly upon reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before adding it to the dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo or swap with rice for a similar texture.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would be delicious additions.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, just omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
This One-Pot Orzo with Sausage, Spinach and Corn is a weeknight dinner dream simple, comforting, and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy!
Print
One-Pot Orzo with Sausage, Spinach and Corn
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This easy and creamy one-pot orzo is packed with flavor from Italian chicken sausage, sweet corn, and fresh spinach. A quick and delicious dinner that’s perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients
- 14 ounces mild Italian chicken sausage
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cups packed baby spinach
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot.
- Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Add the chopped onion and frozen corn (no need to thaw) and sauté for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo and chicken broth, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat, stir in the spinach, and cover for a few minutes until wilted.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan and black pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- Swap chicken sausage for turkey or plant-based sausage for variation.
- For a creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 381 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 55mg