There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Creamy Italian Sausage Orzo Soup is the ultimate cozy meal. With savory sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato-cream broth, it’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Best of all? It’s quick, easy, and made with simple pantry ingredients—perfect for weeknights or when you need an effortless family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Creamy & comforting – A velvety tomato broth with just the right amount of richness.
- Hearty & filling – Sausage and orzo make this soup satisfying enough for dinner.
- Family-friendly – Even picky eaters love it!
- One-pot recipe – No need to cook the orzo separately.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Italian sausage – Mild, spicy, or sweet all work; use ground sausage or remove casings.
- Onion, celery, and garlic – The aromatic base that adds depth.
- Flour – Helps thicken the broth.
- Chicken broth – The savory foundation of the soup.
- Canned diced tomatoes – Regular or fire-roasted for extra flavor.
- Dried oregano – A classic Italian seasoning.
- Orzo pasta – Rice-shaped pasta that thickens the soup as it cooks.
- Heavy cream – Creates a silky, creamy texture.
- Fresh spinach – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Sausage
In a large soup pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of the fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the onion and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, then stir in the garlic and flour, cooking for about a minute.
3. Build the Broth
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to dissolve the flour. Stir in the tomatoes, oregano, and browned sausage. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
4. Add Cream & Orzo
Pour in the cream and orzo, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick. Simmer until the orzo is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Finish with Spinach
Stir in the spinach until wilted. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Pro Tips
- The orzo will continue soaking up broth as it sits. If making ahead, cook the orzo separately and add when reheating.
- Don’t swap out the cream for milk—it may curdle due to the tomatoes.
- For a little heat, use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
Variations
- Swap spinach for kale (add earlier so it softens).
- Use ground beef or turkey, adjusting seasonings to boost flavor.
- Try fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist.
What to Serve With It
- Crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls for dipping.
- A fresh green salad with Italian or Caesar dressing for balance.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Add extra broth or cream when reheating since the orzo thickens the soup.
- Freezer: For best results, freeze before adding the cream, spinach, and orzo. Add those when reheating for fresh flavor and texture.
Nutrition Notes
This soup is hearty and filling thanks to protein-rich sausage and nutrient-packed spinach. Orzo adds comforting carbs, while the creamy tomato base brings indulgence in every spoonful.
✨ Creamy Italian Sausage Orzo Soup is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. It’s quick, cozy, and absolutely delicious—the perfect one-pot comfort food for any night of the week.