Description
Sausage and Orzo Soup is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired soup featuring savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich chicken broth. Perfect for a cozy family meal or chilly evenings, this comforting soup balances protein, veggies, and pasta in a satisfying bowl of warmth.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz Italian sausage, sliced or crumbled
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup orzo pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Place a large pot over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, warming it until shimmering.
- Cook the sausage: Add the 12 oz of Italian sausage, either sliced or crumbled, and cook until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Sauté the vegetables: Stir in the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic: Mix in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute to release its flavor without burning.
- Add broth and bring to boil: Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and increase heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add orzo and seasoning: Stir in 3/4 cup orzo pasta and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender but not mushy.
- Incorporate spinach: Add 2 cups fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use turkey sausage for a lighter, leaner version.
- Add diced zucchini or tomatoes for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired