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Cajun Orzo with Andouille Sausage

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Cajun Orzo with Andouille Sausage is a flavorful, comforting dish featuring smoky sausage, zesty Cajun seasoning, and creamy cheese, all tossed with orzo pasta. This dish has the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and crunch from the crispy panko topping.

Ingredients

12 oz smoked andouille sausage, 1/4 inch slices

Olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes (or one 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes)

1 rib celery, diced

1 medium onion, diced

1 medium poblano or green bell pepper, seeded and diced

2 cups orzo pasta

4 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth or stock

2–3 tsp Cajun seasoning (i.e. Zatarain’s or Tony Chachere’s; adjust to taste)

1 tsp salt (adjust depending on the sodium content of the Cajun seasoning used)

1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup light cream (or low-fat half and half)

3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (or 1/3 cup grated)

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Hot sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the andouille sausage and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary. Sauté garlic, celery, onion, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Orzo: Stir in sliced cherry tomatoes (or Rotel) and uncooked orzo. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Simmer with Broth: Pour in chicken broth and add Cajun seasoning and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add Cheese and Cream: Once orzo is cooked, stir in shredded cheese and light cream. Stir until cheese is melted and mixture is creamy.
  6. Top with Panko and Parmesan: Mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the orzo.
  7. Broil: Broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Serve: Sprinkle cooked sausage back into the dish. Serve with hot sauce and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

Add shrimp for a seafood version or load up on more veggies for a heartier dish.

For a spicier kick, increase Cajun seasoning or add fresh jalapeños to the mix.

For a vegetarian option, replace sausage with plant-based protein or more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://familydinnercooking.com/cajun-orzo-with-andouille-sausage/