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This soup has become my favorite one pot comfort meal. The combination of savory sausage creamy tomato broth tender orzo and fresh spinach creates pure magic in a bowl. Its quick enough for busy weeknights but special enough to make any meal feel cozy and warming.
Why This Recipe Works
I love how everything comes together in one pot the orzo soaking up all those amazing flavors as it cooks. That rich Italian sausage and garlic create such a flavorful base while the creamy tomato broth makes it irresistible. Even my pickiest eaters ask for seconds.
Everything You Need
- Italian Sausage: Mild or spicy both work beautifully here.
- Onion, Celery, and Garlic: Our aromatic flavor base.
- Flour: Just enough to create silky broth.
- Chicken Broth: Adds wonderful depth.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fire roasted give extra flavor.
- Oregano: That classic Italian touch.
- Orzo: Tiny pasta that makes it extra special.
- Heavy Cream: Makes everything rich and velvety.
- Spinach: Fresh greens brighten it up.
Lets Make Soup Together
- Start with Sausage
- Brown it up in your biggest soup pot saving those flavorful bits. Set the sausage aside but leave that good flavor behind.
- Build the Base
- Cook those onions and celery until theyre soft and fragrant. Add garlic and flour letting them work their magic.
- Create the Broth
- Pour in that chicken broth slowly stirring to get everything smooth. Add tomatoes oregano and our cooked sausage then let it bubble away.
- Add the Cream and Orzo
- Stir in the cream and our tiny pasta letting it simmer until the orzo is just perfect.
- Finish with Fresh Greens
- Add handfuls of spinach watching it wilt into the soup. Season to taste and serve it up hot.
My Kitchen Secrets
Always choose really good Italian sausage it makes such a difference. Keep an eye on that orzo and stir it now and then so it doesnt stick. Fresh spinach at the end keeps its bright color. If it gets too thick just add a splash more broth or cream.
Make Life Easier
You can make the base ahead just leave out the orzo cream and spinach until youre ready to serve. Leftovers keep well for about 3-4 days just thin them out when reheating. Want to freeze it? Skip the cream spinach and orzo until youre ready to enjoy it again.
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Perfect Partners
We love dunking crusty bread or warm garlic rolls in this soup. A fresh green salad with homemade Italian dressing makes it complete. Sometimes I make extra garlic bread for soaking up every last drop of that amazing broth.
Mix It Up
Like it spicy? Use hot Italian sausage or add some red pepper flakes. Sometimes I use kale instead of spinach just add it a bit earlier. Going low carb? Try caulirice instead of orzo. Those fire roasted tomatoes add such nice depth.
Why This Never Fails
This soup is pure comfort in a bowl. The way that creamy tomato broth comes together with the sausage and orzo is just perfect. Its simple enough for everyday but special enough to serve to company. Everyone always wants the recipe.
Fun Pasta Facts
Did you know orzo means barley in Italian? They call it that because it looks like little grains of rice. In Italy they often serve soups like this as a first course. Cooking the orzo right in the soup makes everything extra flavorful.
Good For You Too
You get a nice balance of protein from the sausage carbs from the orzo and goodness from all those vegetables. Want to lighten it up? Try turkey sausage and add extra greens. Need it gluten free? Rice or gluten free pasta work great too.
Perfect Pairings
A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio goes beautifully with this soup. Keeping it simple? Sparkling water with lemon or iced tea makes a refreshing partner. Its all about finding what makes your meal special.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- For best results, cook the orzo separately if planning for leftovers. The pasta will continue absorbing liquid as it sits, making the soup too thick. Store the pasta and soup separately, combining when reheating.
- → What type of Italian sausage should I use?
- You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your preference. Either ground sausage meat or whole sausages with casings removed will work fine.
- → Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
- No, do not substitute the heavy cream with lighter alternatives. The high heat and acidity from tomatoes will cause lower-fat dairy to curdle. Heavy cream is necessary for the proper texture.
- → Is the spinach necessary?
- No, the spinach is optional. You can leave it out or substitute with other leafy greens like kale. It's an easy way to add more vegetables to the soup.
- → How can I prevent the orzo from getting mushy?
- Stir the soup frequently while the orzo cooks to prevent sticking. If making ahead, cook orzo separately and add when serving to maintain the best texture.