Think of a warm, comforting bowl of Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup that combines the flavors of savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato broth.
With just 30 minutes of cooking time, this Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup is not only quick but also packed with hearty ingredients that make it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Start with a Friendly Greeting
Hello, soup lovers! Are you looking for a quick yet flavorful soup that warms your soul? This Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful combination of savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and rich tomato broth—all coming together in a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Introduction
Welcome to the world of comforting flavors! The Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup is reminiscent of traditional Italian wedding soups, featuring savory pork sausage meatballs in a hearty broth. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, this dish combines the robust flavors of sausage with the delicate texture of orzo, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys a blend of spice, herbs, and comfort. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian soups or just exploring new dishes, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
For those who love experimenting, adding fresh herbs like basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate this dish to new heights!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ lb. Italian sausage links (casings removed, rolled into bite-sized pieces)
- ½ cup red onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 stalks celery (chopped)
- 1 cup whole wheat orzo pasta
- 6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 30 oz diced tomatoes (2 x 15-oz cans)
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground fennel
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- Fresh spinach or kale (for added nutrition)
- Shaved Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Croutons (for a crunchy topping)
How to Make Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Remove the sausage from its casings and roll into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, chop the celery, and mince the garlic.
Step2: Sauté the Sausage
- In a 3.5-quart soup pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and heat until shimmering (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add the sausage pieces and sauté until lightly browned. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step3: Cook the Aromatics
- To the same pot, add onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until fragrant and slightly tender, stirring as needed for about 3-4 minutes.
Step4: Toast the Orzo
- Add orzo pasta to the pot and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted. This step enhances the flavor of the soup.
Step5: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, oregano, fennel, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well to combine.
Step6: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook until the pasta is al dente (about 10 minutes).
Step7: Add Back the Sausage
- Halfway through cooking, add the sausage back into the pot. Allow it to simmer with the soup to let the flavors meld.
Step8: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve the soup warm, garnished with shaved Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality sausage: The sausage is the star ingredient, so opt for good-quality Italian sausage to ensure the best flavor.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Adjust the spice level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh garlic and onion enhance the flavor profile.
- Prevent overcooking the orzo: Orzo tends to cook quickly, so keep an eye on it to maintain the desired texture.
- Stir often: To prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom, stir frequently during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with homemade Italian bread for dipping.
- Pair with a simple green salad to complement the richness of the soup.
- Add a glass of Chianti wine for an authentic Italian meal experience.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Info for Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup (per serving)
- Calories: 234
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 23mg
- Sodium: 875mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 12g
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute pearl couscous or small pasta shapes like ditalini. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta or a grain like quinoa.
3. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add spinach, kale, or bell peppers for additional nutrients.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the sausage first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the orzo is tender.
Related Recipes
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy & Tasty
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup – A Delightful Meal
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup as much as we do. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup Recipe – Easy & Hearty
Description
Think of a warm, comforting bowl of Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup that combines the flavors of savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato broth.
With just 30 minutes of cooking time, this Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup is not only quick but also packed with hearty ingredients that make it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ lb. Italian sausage links (casings removed, rolled into bite-sized pieces)
- ½ cup red onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 stalks celery (chopped)
- 1 cup whole wheat orzo pasta
- 6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 30 oz diced tomatoes (2 x 15-oz cans)
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground fennel
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- Fresh spinach or kale (for added nutrition)
- Shaved Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Croutons (for a crunchy topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Remove the sausage from its casings and roll into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, chop the celery, and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
- In a 3.5-quart soup pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and heat until shimmering (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add the sausage pieces and sauté until lightly browned. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
- To the same pot, add onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until fragrant and slightly tender, stirring as needed for about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Toast the Orzo
- Add orzo pasta to the pot and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted. This step enhances the flavor of the soup.
Step 5: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, oregano, fennel, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook until the pasta is al dente (about 10 minutes).
Step 7: Add Back the Sausage
- Halfway through cooking, add the sausage back into the pot. Allow it to simmer with the soup to let the flavors meld.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve the soup warm, garnished with shaved Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use high-quality sausage: The sausage is the star ingredient, so opt for good-quality Italian sausage to ensure the best flavor.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Adjust the spice level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.
