If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug from the inside, then this Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s packed with savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant veggies all swimming in a flavorful broth seasoned with herbs and just the right kick of spice. The spinach adds a fresh touch, while the Parmesan finish brings everything together with a cheesy flourish. This soup is as comforting as it is impressive—a true weeknight showstopper that might just have you saying “yes” to seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the aromatic olive oil that starts the base to the fresh spinach that brightens the pot, every element is essential for that perfect bowl.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the sausage and veggies beautifully.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy): The hearty, flavorful protein that gives the soup its signature taste.
- 1 small onion, diced: Builds a sweet, savory foundation when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that enhances all other flavors.
- 1 large carrot, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a satisfying bite.
- 2 ribs celery, diced: Provides subtle earthiness and crunch.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Brings acidity and depth to the broth with every spoonful.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a classic Italian herb flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds bright, sweet notes to balance the savory.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle heat that wakes up the palate.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates the flavorful, comforting liquid base.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: The tiny pasta that cooks up soft and tender, soaking in all the soup’s wonderful flavors.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds vibrant color and a light, fresh taste as it wilts into the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning for perfect balance.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish: The finishing touch that melts into the top, adding rich, nutty flavor.
How to Make Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles with your spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned all over, which not only locks in flavor but creates that irresistible meaty base. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat to keep the soup from feeling greasy.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Veggies
Next, toss in the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté everything together for about five minutes until the vegetables soften and the kitchen smells amazing. This step layers in sweetness and earthiness that rounds out the richness of the sausage.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes (don’t drain the juices!), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Pour in the chicken broth, then bring the whole pot to a lively boil. This combination creates the flavorful, herbal broth that’s both hearty and bright.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo Pasta
Once boiling, add your orzo and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the orzo cooks evenly. The pasta will soak up the broth and become tender so that every spoonful has that perfect pasta bite.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Season
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook just until it wilts down, lending a fresh pop of color and nutrients. Give the soup a taste and season generously with salt and pepper. This is the moment where the flavors all harmonize beautifully.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with a generous grating of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts slightly on top, delivering that salty, savory finish that turns a great recipe into a family favorite.
How to Serve Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While Parmesan is the classic, feel free to get creative. A handful of chopped fresh basil, a drizzle of good olive oil, or even a scattering of toasted pine nuts can elevate the dish visually and add texture that surprises and delights.
Side Dishes
This soup is comforting enough to enjoy on its own, but pairing it with a warm crusty bread or garlic bread sticks makes it a more filling meal. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can also add brightness to the table and balance out the richness of the sausage and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe or in clear glass mugs for a charming presentation perfect for casual get-togethers. Adding a sprinkle of microgreens or a twist of lemon zest right before serving can make your version feel fresh and special every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to cool it down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, so leftovers often taste even better the next day!
Freezing
If you want to save some for a later meal, this soup freezes well. Avoid adding the Parmesan cheese before freezing; instead, sprinkle it on top after reheating. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to three months to enjoy your Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe anytime you want a comforting boost.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the orzo from sticking. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up. Top with your Parmesan and fresh garnishes after warming for the full experience.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage can be a leaner option and still delivers great flavor. Just make sure it’s seasoned well or consider adding a bit more herbs and spices to keep the soup flavorful.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
You can swap the sausage for plant-based crumbles or hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep that depth of flavor, and the soup will still be delicious and satisfying.
Can I prepare the soup in advance and reheat?
Definitely. This soup is perfect for meal prep since the flavors meld even more after resting. Just store it in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy.
What if I don’t have orzo pasta?
No problem! You can use other small shapes like acini di pepe, ditalini, or even finely broken spaghetti. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta texture.
How spicy is this soup if I include the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. If you prefer milder flavors, you can leave them out or adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a big, warm welcome at the end of a busy day. Its irresistible combination of comfort, flavor, and quick preparation makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a hearty meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Print
Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup is a comforting Italian-inspired soup made with savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and vibrant spinach, all simmered in a flavorful tomato and herb broth. Perfect for a hearty weeknight meal, it combines the warmth of a classic soup with the unique texture of orzo and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
Pasta and Greens
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the sausage and vegetables.
- Cook the sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook and stir until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes, which helps to develop the soup’s base flavor.
- Add tomatoes and herbs: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil to blend all flavors together.
- Cook the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the boiling soup and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender but still holds its shape.
- Incorporate spinach: Stir in the fresh chopped spinach and cook until wilted, which will take just a few minutes. Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor. Enjoy your warm, hearty bowl of Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup!
Notes
- You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- For a lighter version, use turkey sausage instead of pork.
- If you prefer a vegetarian variant, replace sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Orzo can be substituted with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or ditalini.
- This soup stores well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Adding Parmesan cheese at serving time prevents it from melting too much and keeps its flavor fresh.
