Description
Creamy Pumpkin Orzo with Sausage
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
2-3 Italian sausages, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup canned pumpkin purée
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausages and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Orzo & Broth: Stir in orzo pasta, then add chicken broth. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Mix in Pumpkin & Cream: Stir in the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine & Serve: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and toss to combine. Garnish with extra Parmesan and thyme. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 410 kcal per serving
#PumpkinSeason #OrzoRecipe #ComfortFood #FallDinner #EasyMeals
Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow these detailed instructions. Start by ensuring your canned pumpkin purée is pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. Use a deep, large skillet or a Dutch oven for even cooking. After browning the sausage, deglaze the pan with a splash of broth, scraping up the flavorful browned bits before adding the garlic. When simmering the orzo, maintain a gentle bubble and stir frequently to prevent sticking. The dish is ready when the orzo is al dente and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete fall meal, serve it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed kale. A crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. To elevate the presentation, garnish with not only extra Parmesan and thyme but also a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pan meal is built in layers: brown Italian sausage, sauté garlic, simmer orzo in broth until tender, then create a creamy sauce by stirring in pumpkin purée, heavy cream, Parmesan, and thyme. Finally, combine everything back in the skillet for a cohesive, comforting dish ready in about 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work, but cooking times will vary. Avoid long pasta.
How can I make this vegetarian? Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for heartiness.
Can I make it ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, as the orzo continues to absorb liquid. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Is there a dairy-free alternative? Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternative.
Can I freeze leftovers? Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate and the orzo can become mushy upon reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Pumpkin Pie Filling: This common error will make your dish far too sweet. Always use plain, unsweetened pumpkin purée.
- Overcooking the Orzo: Simmer just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the residual heat with the sauce.
- Not Stirring During Simmering: Orzo can stick to the bottom of the pan. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Adding Cold Dairy Too Quickly: To prevent curdling, let the skillet cool slightly off the heat before stirring in the cream and cheese.
Conclusion
This Creamy Pumpkin Orzo with Sausage is the ultimate weeknight comfort food, perfectly capturing the essence of fall in a single skillet. It masterfully balances savory sausage, creamy pumpkin, and hearty pasta for a satisfying meal that feels special yet comes together with minimal effort. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that will become a seasonal favorite. Enjoy the cozy flavors and the simplicity of this delicious dinner.