Sausage Beef Kale & Cherry Tomato Orzo -

Savor the delicious blend of flavors with this hearty Sausage Beef, Kale & Cherry Tomato Orzo recipe. Bursting with nutritious ingredients and cooked in one skillet, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor. This dish combines ground beef sausage, kale, cherry tomatoes, and orzo pasta, offering a comforting yet healthy meal to delight your family.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is wonderfully balanced, combining protein from the beef sausage, greens from kale, and the complex carbohydrates found in orzo pasta. The cherry tomatoes add a sweet, juicy pop that brings everything together. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means fewer dishes to wash—always a bonus!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Beef, Kale & Cherry Tomato Orzo

Use Quality Sausage: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality ground beef sausage without additives.

Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh kale and ripe cherry tomatoes for enhanced taste and nutrition.
Customize Your Greens: If you’re not a fan of kale, you can substitute with spinach or Swiss chard.
Enhance Flavor: Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a satisfying meal for four:

1 lb (450g) ground beef sausage (casings removed)

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to whip up this delicious dish:

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Add ground beef sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Stir in orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Step 6: Add kale and cherry tomatoes, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for another 3-4 minutes until kale is wilted.

Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired, before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the beef sausage with a plant-based sausage or skip it entirely and add more vegetables.

2. How can I store leftovers?

Cool the leftover orzo completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the dish. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; reheat thoroughly before serving.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce.

5. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when cooking the sausage for a kick of heat.

Conclusion

In just about 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering Sausage Beef, Kale & Cherry Tomato Orzo dish that’s sure to impress. With its hearty ingredients, joyful flavors, and easy clean-up, it checks all the boxes for a family-friendly meal. Enjoy the fantastic combination of healthy greens and protein, while also relishing the comfort of orzo pasta. Happy cooking!