Often overlooked, orzo is a great addition to any pasta lovers recipe book. This Italian sausage orzo is perfect for an easy, one pot meal thats ready from start to finish in less than 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sausage
• 1 cup diced white onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups baby spinach
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown and crumble the sausage. As sausage is almost done, add diced onion and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, until onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes and uncooked orzo to pot. Cook and stir until well incorporated for about 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the pot. Stir and scrape bottom of pan to make sure nothing sticks. Turn heat to medium-high until bubbling begins, then reduce to medium-low for a continuous simmer, stir occasionally. Cook for about 12 minutes, or until orzo is al dente. May have to taste test, the orzo should be soft and not hard to chew.
4. Once orzo is done, remove pot from heat. Add the baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese, mix well. Cover dish with lid or foil for about 3 minutes.
5. Spinach will reduce and wilt, and cheese will melt with the residual heat. Serve hot with a garnish of Parmesan and enjoy!