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–+ servings
Cajun Sausage and Orzo

Creamy Cajun Sausage and Orzo for a Cozy Dinner Night

A comforting one-pan dish featuring Cajun sausage and orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Flavor Base
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be swapped with any cooking oil
  • 12 ounces Sliced Smoked Sausage Andouille sausage is authentic
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Red onion can be used for a milder taste
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Mix it up with other bell peppers
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic preferred
For the Main Dish
  • 1 cup Uncooked Orzo Feel free to swap with other short pasta shapes
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is a great alternative
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Increase for more heat
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup Half-and-Half Use heavy cream for richness or milk for a lighter feel
  • ½ cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Kale can substitute
For Finishing Touches
  • 1 tablespoon Juice of Lemon Vinegar can work if lemon is out of stock
  • Optional Fresh Parsley Completely optional

Equipment

  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage, browning for 5–7 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
  2. Lower heat to medium-low. Add diced onion and chopped bell pepper, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until soft.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  4. Incorporate uncooked orzo into the skillet, stirring for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and add Cajun seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.
  6. Stir in browned sausage, half-and-half, and shredded cheese. Mix well and warm through for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Fold in fresh spinach and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes). Squeeze lemon juice over the dish before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Great for meal prep; keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Can be frozen for 2 months.

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