If you’re in the mood for a dish that brings together cozy comfort, a hint of indulgence, and a flavor combination that’s downright swoon-worthy, let me introduce you to Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup. This is the sort of soul-warming meal that’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough to make anyone fall head over heels. Creamy orzo pairs with savory Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh greens, delivering a soup that tastes both classic and a little bit special—perfect for sharing with someone you love or treating yourself to something truly delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup is in its balance of straightforward ingredients and deeply satisfying results. Each component layers in flavor, creaminess, or a pop of color to make this soup feel extra special, even though your grocery list is wonderfully manageable.
- Olive oil: Just a touch gets the sausage sizzling and the flavors going right from the start.
- Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed): The heart and soul here—choose mild for classic comfort or spicy for a kick.
- Yellow onion (diced): Brings natural sweetness and savory depth as it softens.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Essential for aromatic goodness that hits you the moment it hits the pan.
- Italian seasoning: This trusty blend infuses the soup with herbs reminiscent of your favorite trattoria.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a flirty bit of heat running through their bowl.
- Tomato paste: Adds both richness and a hint of tang, building that gorgeous base flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped): These little bites offer sweet, deep tomato flavor and chewiness that pops.
- Chicken broth: The liquid gold that ties everything together; go for low-sodium if you want to control salt.
- Orzo pasta: Lovable little rice-shaped pasta that turns each spoonful into a hearty meal.
- Heavy cream: Gives the soup its velvety, luxurious body—pure comfort in every sip.
- Fresh spinach (chopped): Adds color, a touch of earthiness, and nutrition to round things out.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The salty, cheesy hug at the end—it pulls all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper: Season to tease out all the best in every ingredient.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A sprinkle transforms your soup into a showstopper, both pretty and fragrant.
How to Make Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This is where you’ll develop that irresistible layer of flavor, so be patient and let it get golden brown and nicely crumbled—about 6 to 7 minutes. If there’s extra grease, just spoon it off so things don’t get heavy later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, toss in your diced onion. Let them mingle with the sausage drippings and soften for 3 to 4 minutes, until fragrant and translucent. This is your cue to add the garlic, Italian seasoning, and if you like a bit of heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, letting everything cook together for 2 to 3 minutes. That concentrated tomato flavor, mingling with sausage and spices, is the magic behind Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup!
Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth and give it all a good stir, scraping up any gorgeous browned bits from the bottom. Bring it to a boil, then stir in the orzo. Lower the heat and let it gently simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll want to give it a gentle stir every couple of minutes so your orzo stays suspended in the broth, not stuck to the bottom.
Step 4: Finish with Cream and Spinach
When the orzo is just tender, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes—the spinach will wilt and the soup will turn beautifully creamy. At this point, it’s starting to look and smell irresistible!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Season
Time for the finishing touch: stir in the grated Parmesan until it melts seamlessly into your soup. Now, taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve your Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup piping hot, with fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy—it’s the perfect flourish.
How to Serve Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup
Garnishes
Give your soup an extra pop by topping each bowl with fresh basil, more shaved Parmesan, or a light drizzle of olive oil. Not only does this add color and fragrance, but it also lets you customize each bowl to the occasion—especially if you’ve got guests to wow!
Side Dishes
Crusty bread or garlic knots are a classic move with Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup, perfect for dunking and swirling in that creamy broth. If you want something lighter, serve it with a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic; it cuts the richness perfectly and rounds out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Ladle soup into mini bowls or mugs for a casual gathering or as a starter at a dinner party. For a family-style feel, bring the pot to the table and let everyone help themselves—it’s cozy, interactive, and lets the comforting aroma linger a little longer. You can even sprinkle extra toppings around so people can build their own perfect bowl of Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, which makes for a next-day lunch or dinner with even more personality. Keep in mind, the orzo will absorb some broth as it sits, so don’t be alarmed if it thickens a bit!
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, just let the soup cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It freezes well for up to 2 months. The orzo may be softer upon thawing, but the flavors stay bold and satisfying.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy, gently reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the soup if it’s gotten thick. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then dive in—your Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup is just as delicious the next day.
FAQs
Can I make Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap traditional orzo for your favorite gluten-free orzo or small pasta shape, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. The creamy, cozy vibes remain totally intact.
What kind of sausage works best?
Both mild and spicy Italian sausage shine in this soup, depending on your flavor preferences. You can even use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter take—just don’t skip the browning stage for maximum flavor.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or shredded carrots can all find a happy home in Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup. Just add them along with the onions so they have plenty of time to soften and mingle with the other flavors.
How can I make the soup lighter?
If you want a less rich version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. You’ll still get that touch of creaminess, but with fewer calories—just as comforting!
Does the soup thicken as it sits?
It does! The orzo soaks up broth as it cools, so leftovers will be thicker. Just add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring it back to your desired consistency. The flavors only get better with time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a recipe that’s equal parts cozy and crave-worthy, Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup just might be your new favorite. It delivers on taste, comfort, and those little moments of bliss with every bite. Give this recipe a try, share it with someone you love, and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your home kitchen!
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Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of Italian sausage, orzo pasta, and spinach in a creamy broth creates a hearty and satisfying soup that will warm you up from the inside out.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and crumbled, about 6–7 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, tomato paste, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes until the spinach is wilted.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- This soup thickens as it sits, so add a splash of broth or water to leftovers when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
