This Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo is a comforting and hearty dish that’s packed with bold flavors. Featuring tender Italian sausage, toasted orzo pasta, and a savory broth seasoned with Italian herbs, this soup is the perfect one-pot meal for chilly evenings or a quick dinner fix.
“Warm, flavorful, and filling, this soup will quickly become a family favorite!”
Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo :
This Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo combines simple ingredients into a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. The sausage adds a savory depth, while the orzo provides a delightful texture. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something cozy and delicious.
Ingredients for Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo :
“With fresh veggies, savory sausage, and aromatic spices, this soup is bursting with flavor.”
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage: Adds a savory, slightly spicy flavor to the soup.
- 1 tsp olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the sausage.
- 1/2 red onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced: Enhances the flavor with a bold, aromatic touch.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds crunch and a fresh flavor to the soup.
- 1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta: A small pasta that adds a satisfying texture.
- 6 cups chicken stock: Forms the savory broth base of the soup.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and richness to the soup.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil that elevate the soup.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds a touch of heat and spice.
How to Make Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo :
Follow these steps to create a hearty and flavorful soup in just 30 minutes:
“This soup is all about layering flavors, starting with perfectly browned sausage and ending with a rich, simmering broth.”
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add 1/2 lb Italian sausage and break it into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until well browned, then drain the excess fat and set the sausage aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the diced red onion, minced garlic, and diced celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the pan and stir for 2-3 minutes until the pasta is lightly toasted. This step adds a nutty flavor and prevents the orzo from becoming mushy in the soup.
“Toasting the orzo is a simple step that makes a big difference in flavor and texture.”
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the chicken stock, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir to combine, then return the browned sausage to the pot.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo will cook to tender perfection, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
“As the soup simmers, your kitchen will fill with the delicious aroma of garlic, herbs, and savory sausage.”
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. For added flavor, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo :
“A few small tweaks can take this soup from great to extraordinary!”
- Use Quality Sausage: Choose a flavorful Italian sausage, mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
- Toast the Orzo: Don’t skip this step! It adds a subtle nutty flavor to the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
What to Serve with Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo :
This hearty soup is satisfying on its own but pairs well with:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle on top for an extra cheesy touch.
“Pair this soup with your favorite bread for the ultimate cozy meal!”
Frequently Asked Questions :
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even broken spaghetti.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the orzo may absorb more broth, so you might need to add extra stock when reheating.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the orzo. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and add cooked orzo to avoid mushiness.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
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Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo
"This easy, comforting soup is perfect for cozy nights or quick family meals."
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste