Cheesy Orzo and Turkey Bratwurst

Ok, I have been having way too much fun with my sister and not posting as often as I should, but it's ok because I have a bunch of new recipes for you all!! Today is a yummy, creamy, cheesy pasta/meat dish. I came up with this one when I realized we were totally out of food but I did have these few ingredients and the outcome..... WONDERFUL!! It was soo good, healthy and quick too! I know it will be asked for often, especially by my husband!




Ingredients: (this recipe made enough for 4 adults. If you are cooking for more just double the recipe :)

1 tablespoon butter
1 1/2 cups orzo
2 1/2 cups chicken stock or water with a couple bouillon cubes dissolved
salt and pepper
garlic powder
1/2 cup finely grated mozzarella cheese
4 turkey bratwurst, thawed
fresh parsley, chopped

1. Melt butter in a medium sauce pan over medium heat. When melted add orzo and a few shakes of salt and pepper. Stir the orzo until covered in the melted butter and allow to brown for a few minutes. Keep stirring so nothing burns. After a few minutes and pasta is slightly brown go ahead and add your stock. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat and a low simmer. Allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is becoming creamy.
2. While the orzo is simmering heat a non-stick skillet to medium heat and start cooking your bratwurst. Just keep turning in the pan so all sides are browned and the meat is cooked through. It will take just about as long to cook the meat as it does to cook the orzo.
3. Ok, finishing touches. When your meat is cooked through and the pasta has absorbed all the liquid go ahead and add your cheese to the pasta. After you have stirred and combined the cheese and pasta add the chopped parsley too. You may need to add a couple tablespoon of water to keep it creamy. (As your stir everything together, steam is still coming off your pasta and liquid is still be absorbed so add a bit of water to make it moist). Ok plate that food and eat!!

* I served this with steamed carrots with a bit of tub butter, salt and pepper. But steamed green beans, broccoli, or a nice green salad would be great! Also add some garlic bread to finish off the meal!