Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Method

1. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 6-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3. Add broccoli florets and cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
4. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the skillet. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
7. Add cooked orzo and reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and extra Parmesan on top.