Description
This Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup is a luscious, creamy blend of savory sausage, tender orzo, and fresh spinach, all coming together in a flavorful Italian-inspired broth. It’s the perfect comforting and hearty recipe for a cozy dinner that’ll leave everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
Thickener & Flavor Boosters
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Base & Seasonings
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
Add-Ins
- 3/4 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage and Onion
In a large pot, cook the ground pork sausage and diced onion over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally and cook until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, and the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. - Incorporate the Thickener and Tomato Paste
Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the flour and tomato paste, mixing continuously until they are fully incorporated. This step will slightly thicken the soup base and enhance its flavor. - Simmer the Broth and Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the Italian seasoning, paprika, sun-dried tomatoes, and dry orzo pasta. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to simmer and cook for 10-13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and plump. - Add Cream, Spinach, and Parmesan
Stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix until the spinach wilts and the cheese is melted, creating a creamy and rich consistency. - Final Seasoning and Garnish
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with red pepper flakes and extra parmesan cheese (optional) for an irresistible finish!
Notes
- For a lighter version: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Orzo swap: If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small elbow macaroni can be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add protein: Shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey can complement the sausage for an even heartier soup.
- Make it ahead: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 bowl
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1080mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
