Description

Imagine a warm, cozy kitchen filled with the intoxicating aromas of sautéed garlic, earthy herbs, and savory sausage simmering together in a robust broth. Welcome to the delightful world of Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup—a dish that combines heartiness and comfort in a single bowl. This recipe has a uniquely romantic charm, often hailed as the kind of meal you might want to serve to someone you love, or simply to reward yourself after a long day.

Originating from classic Italian influences, this soup features ground Italian sausage, which serves as the star ingredient, elegantly complemented by tender orzo pasta and a medley of vibrant vegetables. The richness of the sausage infuses the broth, while the orzo absorbs the flavors and lends a satisfying texture. In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up this heartwarming dish that is perfect for chilly evenings or as a delightful family dinner.

Not only is this soup easy to prepare, but it also invites you to showcase your culinary skills with its comforting yet impressive presentation. Cook it with love, serve it with a cheerful heart, and prepare for your loved ones to reach for seconds, or even thirds. After tasting the blend of flavors that this dish provides, you might find yourself daydreaming about it long after the last spoonful has been enjoyed.

Ingredients

• For the sausage base:
• - 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• - 1 tablespoon olive oil (to sauté)
• For the soup:
• - 1 medium onion, diced
• - 2 ribs celery, diced
• - 1 large carrot, diced
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced
• - 14.5 ounces can diced tomatoes, with juices
• - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• - 1 teaspoon dried basil
• - Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• - 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• - 1 cup orzo pasta
• - 2 cups fresh spinach
• - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Preparation Method

To get started with your Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup, you’ll first want to prepare your main ingredient: the sausage. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. As the oil warms up, add the raw Italian sausage to the pot. A gentle sizzle should greet you as the sausage hits the pan; if you don’t hear it, you might want to let the oil heat up a bit more.

Using a wooden spoon, break the sausage into crumbles. Stir it frequently to encourage even browning, which allows the flavors to deepen in richness. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, which typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when you see no pink remaining in the meat.

Once the sausage has reached that perfect golden color, carefully use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot, letting the flavorful drippings remain. Set the sausage crumbles aside on a plate. Keep an eye on the pot; you may need to drain some excess fat if there’s too much (it should look glossy but not greasy).

Next, it’s time to build the flavor base with your vegetables. In the same pot, you should notice flecks of browned sausage at the bottom—this is where the magic happens! Add the diced onion, diced celery, and diced carrot to the pot, stirring them into the residual fats from the sausage. It’s a delightful moment when the vegetables touch the heat, releasing their natural sweetness as they begin to soften. This process should take about 5 minutes, but keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t brown too much.

Once the vegetables are tender and fragrant, toss in the minced garlic, stirring constantly for about another minute until the garlic is aromatic and lightly golden. It’s essential not to let the garlic burn; it can turn bitter and negatively impact the overall flavor of your soup.

The next step involves building the broth base. Pour in a can of diced tomatoes, juices included—this acidity will play beautifully against the richness of the sausage. Then, sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes to your liking for that extra warmth. Stir to combine all ingredients beautifully.

Now, it’s time to introduce those 4 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Use either homemade broth for a truly authentic flavor or store-bought for convenience—both work splendidly. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, and as it bubbles, you can marvel at the beautiful colors and scents filling your kitchen.

Once you have reached a rolling boil, it’s time to add the orzo pasta. This lovely pasta will cook super quickly—just a matter of 8 to 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to a simmer, and stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot. While you wait, the orzo will absorb the broth and release starch, giving your soup a luxuriously thick texture.

While the orzo is cooking, prepare for the finishing touch—your fresh spinach, which is the heart of this dish. After the orzo has cooked to al dente perfection, fold in the spinach. It will wilt rapidly, within just a minute or two, adding a vibrant green pop to your dish.

Before serving, taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. It’s generally best to start sparingly, as the sausage may contribute some saltiness already. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider garnishing each bowl with a shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. It adds a fabulous umami dimension that uplifts the entire soup.

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful side dish that perfectly complements Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup, consider serving a simple arugula salad topped with a lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens will contrast beautifully with the richness of the soup, offering a refreshing balance.

If you want to customize the soup further, consider adding more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even some frozen peas for a burst of color. You can also swap the orzo for another small pasta shape, like ditalini or pastina.

This soup can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you find that it thickens too much upon sitting, feel free to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Creating your own Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup is not just about following a recipe—it’s about the experience of crafting something comforting and delicious from scratch. With each step, you engage your senses, from the colorful chopping of fresh vegetables to the warm, inviting aromas wafting through your kitchen. Once you ladle the soup into bowls and serve it garnished with cheese, you create a moment of connection around the table with family or friends.

This dish is genuinely a feast for both the belly and the soul. So, why stop here? Explore more culinary adventures on our site! Delve into other heartwarming soup recipes or discover new dishes that elevate your weeknight dinners. Your kitchen is the heart of your home—keep it vibrant and filled with love through cooking!

Share your experience with this recipe and invite your family and friends to indulge in the warmth and flavor of Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup. Happy cooking and bon appétit!