Creamy Orzo Risotto with Italian Sausage and Tender Artichokes
This delightful one-dish meal brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage and the delicate earthiness of artichokes, all enveloped in creamy, al dente orzo. Inspired by a classic risotto technique, this dish is easier to prepare and packed with flavor. The sweetness of peas, the sharp notes from parmesan, and the freshness of chives elevate it to a comforting yet elegant dinner option. Perfect for family gatherings or a special occasion, make it your go-to recipe for something unique and satisfying. For a hint of heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage or stirring in some red pepper flakes with the onions and garlic.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (None)
Italian Sausage, sweet
1 lb (Casings removed)
Onion
1 large (Thinly sliced)
Garlic Clove
1 large (Minced)
Orzo Pasta
1 1/2 cups (10 ounces) (None)
Chicken Stock or Low Sodium Chicken Broth
2 cups (None)
Salt
to taste (None)
Pepper
to taste (None)
Marinated Artichokes
1 cup (Drained and quartered)
Frozen Baby Peas
1 cup (None)
Chives
3 tablespoons (Snipped)
Parmesan Cheese
6 tablespoons (Grated, plus more for serving)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.
2
Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, then transfer the sausage to a plate while leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
3
Reduce the heat to medium, then add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cover and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 4 minutes.
4
Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for an additional 3 minutes until lightly toasted, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
5
Pour in the chicken stock and an additional 2 cups of water. Stir continuously until the orzo is tender and the mixture achieves a creamy consistency, approximately 15 minutes.
6
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
7
Add the cooked sausage along with the drained and quartered marinated artichokes, frozen baby peas, snipped chives, and grated parmesan. Stir well and cook for another 4 minutes until everything is heated through.
8
Serve immediately, garnishing with extra grated parmesan cheese at the table for those who desire it.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Orzo Risotto with Italian Sausage and Tender Artichokes?
It is a one-dish meal that combines Italian sausage, marinated artichokes, and orzo pasta in a creamy, risotto-style preparation.
Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of sweet?
Yes, you can substitute sweet Italian sausage with spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a hint of heat.
How should the artichokes be prepared for this recipe?
The marinated artichokes should be drained and quartered before being added to the dish.
What type of pasta is required?
The recipe calls for 1.5 cups (10 ounces) of orzo pasta.
How long does it take to cook the Italian sausage?
The sausage should be sautéed for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Should I remove the fat from the pan after cooking the sausage?
No, you should leave the rendered fat in the skillet to sauté the onion and garlic.
How long do the onions and garlic need to cook?
They should be sautéed under a cover for about 4 minutes until the onion is softened.
Why do I need to toast the orzo pasta?
Toasting the orzo for 3 minutes adds a nutty flavor and helps prevent the pasta from sticking.
How much liquid is used to cook the orzo?
The recipe uses 2 cups of chicken stock and 2 cups of water.
What is the total cooking time for the orzo to become creamy?
It takes approximately 15 minutes of continuous stirring for the orzo to reach a tender and creamy consistency.
When should I add the frozen baby peas?
The peas are added during the final 4 minutes of cooking along with the sausage and artichokes.
How much parmesan cheese is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 tablespoons of grated parmesan, with extra available for serving.
Are the peas used in this recipe fresh or frozen?
The recipe specifically requires 1 cup of frozen baby peas.
How should the chives be prepared?
The 3 tablespoons of chives should be snipped before being added to the skillet.
Can I add red pepper flakes to this dish?
Yes, you can stir in red pepper flakes with the onions and garlic for added spiciness.
Is this considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is a complete one-dish meal designed for easy preparation and cleanup.
What type of oil is best for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for sautéing the sausage.
Do I need to remove the casings from the sausage?
Yes, the casings should be removed from the Italian sausage before cooking.
How should I serve this orzo risotto?
It should be served immediately, garnished with additional grated parmesan cheese if desired.
What is the recommended size for the onion?
The recipe calls for 1 large onion, which should be thinly sliced.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe uses 1 large minced garlic clove.
Can I use low-sodium chicken broth?
Yes, low-sodium chicken broth is an acceptable substitute for regular chicken stock.
What provides the earthiness in this dish?
The tender marinated artichokes provide the delicate earthiness mentioned in the description.
When do I season the dish with salt and pepper?
Season with salt and pepper to taste once the orzo is tender and before adding the final ingredients.
Does the recipe require constant stirring?
Yes, you should stir continuously while the orzo cooks to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for a special occasion?
Yes, its elegant flavors make it perfect for both family gatherings and special occasions.
Can I substitute fresh artichokes for marinated ones?
The recipe specifies marinated artichokes for their flavor, so fresh ones would require different preparation and seasoning.
How much extra virgin olive oil is used?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The specific serving size is not provided, but it uses 1 lb of sausage and 1.5 cups of dry pasta.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
The flavor profile is a mix of rich Italian sausage, earthy artichokes, sweet peas, and sharp parmesan cheese.