This One Pot Garlic Butter Sausage & Orzo is a rich, creamy comfortfood recipe made with smoked sausage, toasted orzo, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, all cooked in a single skillet.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and sliced smoked sausage. Cook until the sausage is browned on both sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and creamy. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Let simmer another 2 to 3 minutes.
Top with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy immediately while hot and creamy.
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Recipe Tips
Don't skip toasting the orzo. Cooking the dry pasta for a minute or two before adding the liquid gives it a deeper flavor and helps prevent it from becoming mushy.