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There is something truly magical about the Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe that makes it a fast favorite for cozy dinners. This soup blends savory ground pork sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a luscious creamy broth speckled with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, creating a comfort bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Every spoonful bursts with layers of flavor and texture, making it a dish you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation for quick lunches or heartfelt family meals alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a starring role in the final taste and texture. Here’s a curated list of essentials that come together effortlessly to create a hearty and satisfying soup.
- 1 pound ground pork sausage: Provides a rich, savory base loaded with flavorful fat and seasoning.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic foundation when sautéed to softness.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Infuses the soup with a fragrant punch that enhances all the other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to create a roux that thickens and deepens the broth’s texture.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Brings a concentrated tangy sweetness and beautiful color to the soup.
- 8 cups chicken broth: The essential liquid that forms a warm, savory canvas for all the ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a bright Mediterranean touch.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Delivers subtle earthiness and a hint of smoky warmth.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: Adds bursts of intense sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture.
- 3/4 cup dry orzo pasta: The tender, mini pasta pearls that soak up the creamy broth beautifully.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a silky and indulgent finish to coating every mouthful.
- 3 cups baby spinach: Adds a pop of vibrant green color and a fresh, earthy note.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup for a nutty, slightly salty richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish: Optional kick that can be added for those who love a little heat.
How to Make Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown Sausage and Sauté Vegetables
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork sausage and diced onion, cooking until the sausage is beautifully browned and the onions soften to a translucent, sweet state. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook just a minute more until the aroma fills your kitchen. This base layer is where the magic begins, packing rich savory depth into the soup.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Stir in the all-purpose flour and tomato paste directly into the sausage mixture. This combination will thicken the eventual broth and add a subtly sweet tomato flavor that balances out the richness of the sausage. Cook for a minute or two, stirring constantly, so the flour cooks through but doesn’t brown too much. This step is crucial for that silky, luxurious texture.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Give everything a good stir before adding the dry orzo pasta. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10 to 13 minutes. The orzo will swell and absorb the delicious broth flavors, creating a comforting and hearty consistency.
Step 4: Stir in Cream, Spinach, and Cheese
Once the orzo is tender, gently stir in the heavy cream, fresh baby spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. The creaminess will instantly elevate the soup, while the spinach wilts into a tender vibrant bed of green. The Parmesan melts pleasantly throughout, adding a savory finish that ties all the flavors together with its nutty undertones.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Now it’s time to taste and tailor! Season your Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe with salt and pepper to your liking. For a lively final touch, sprinkle red pepper flakes as a garnish that delivers just enough heat without overpowering the dish. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the heartfelt comfort that every spoonful brings.
How to Serve Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this soup visually and taste-wise, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil works wonders for a pop of green freshness. A dusting of extra Parmesan cheese adds an irresistible cheesy crust on top. And for those who enjoy a hint of spice, don’t forget the red pepper flakes for a subtle fiery kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs exceptionally well with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up every last drop of that luscious broth. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty richness. Alternatively, a small plate of roasted vegetables or a simple caprese salad can turn your soup meal into a well-rounded feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe in charming bowls garnished with fresh herbs for an inviting look. For casual gatherings, consider bread bowls for an edible, rustic presentation. Or layer it in clear glass mugs to showcase its colorful ingredients, making it perfect for a cozy dinner party where presentation adds a touch of fun to every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this delicious soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, perfect for quick lunches or warming dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
The Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best results and to preserve the creamy texture and flavors.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating and the orzo from sticking. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen and bring back its comforting soup-like consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in the Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground pork sausage provides a rich flavor, Italian sausage or even turkey sausage can be used depending on your preference. Adjust seasoning as needed to compensate for differences in spice levels.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add extra seasoning or smoked paprika to maintain the depth of flavor.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
For a lighter option, try half-and-half or whole milk; just be mindful that the soup may lose some of its silky richness. Coconut cream can also work well for a dairy-free twist, adding a subtle sweetness.
How long does it take to cook the orzo in the soup?
The orzo typically takes about 10 to 13 minutes to cook until tender. Keep an eye on it and taste toward the end to make sure it doesn’t become mushy.
What is the best way to reheat this soup without losing creaminess?
Warm the soup slowly over low heat, stirring gently. Avoid microwaving at high heat since it can cause the cream to separate. Adding a small splash of broth while reheating helps maintain that perfect creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason why the Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe has earned a special place in so many kitchens. It’s straightforward, comforting, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a heartfelt way to bring warmth and joy to the table. Give it a try—you just might find yourself making it over and over again.
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Print
Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A hearty and comforting Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup that combines savory ground pork sausage with sun-dried tomatoes, tender orzo pasta, fresh baby spinach, and creamy Parmesan-infused broth. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner, featuring layers of bold Italian seasoning and a touch of paprika for a warm, inviting taste.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 3 cups baby spinach
Dry Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3/4 cup dry orzo pasta
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish
Liquids and Dairy
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown sausage and sauté vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground pork sausage and diced onion over medium-high heat until the sausage is browned and the onions are softened. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Make roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and tomato paste to the sausage mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine and cook off the raw flour taste.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth, then add Italian seasoning, paprika, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and dry orzo pasta. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 10-13 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and cooked through.
- Stir in cream, spinach, and cheese: Add the heavy cream, baby spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the soup, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with red pepper flakes and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- This soup is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Add more chicken broth or water if the soup thickens too much upon standing.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
