Creamy Cajun Orzo & Smoked Sausage

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage, diced
• ½ cup yellow onion, diced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1½ cups orzo
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1-2 tsp Cajun seasoning, or more to taste
• 1 tsp each garlic powder and dried parsley
• ½ tsp each paprika and black pepper
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced smoked sausage and onion. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened.

2. 2

   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the orzo and toast for another minute, stirring frequently.

3. 3

   Pour in the chicken broth and season with the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, parsley, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.

5. 4

   Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

6. 5

   Remove from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

7. 6

   Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.