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. 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. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the orzo and toast for another minute, stirring frequently.
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.
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.
5. Remove from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
6. Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.