Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo

“Make the best Italian Sausage Soup with Orzo, a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for weeknight dinners. This easy recipe combines savory Italian sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a rich broth made with chicken stock, diced tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting soup is packed with protein, veggies, and bold Italian flavors. Perfect for meal prep, this soup is also freezer-friendly and easy to customize for a gluten-free or vegetarian diet. Serve it with crusty bread and Parmesan for a delicious, family-friendly dinner!”

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb Italian sausage
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Brown thoroughly, then remove and drain excess fat. Set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same pan, add the diced red onion, minced garlic, and diced celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Toast the Orzo:
   • Add the uncooked orzo to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Stir frequently and toast for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Pour in the chicken stock, diced tomatoes, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Return the browned sausage to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Cook the Soup:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot.

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Tips

• Choose the Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat or mild sausage for a milder flavor.
• Control the Texture: For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add a small handful of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Vegetables: Add diced carrots or spinach for extra nutrients and color.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Protein Swaps: Substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
• Tomato-Free: Skip the diced tomatoes and add extra chicken stock for a lighter broth.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! The flavors deepen over time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and add a splash of stock if it thickens too much.

Q: Can I freeze Italian sausage soup?
A: Absolutely. Freeze the soup without the orzo for the best texture. Cook fresh orzo and add it when reheating.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for added flavor.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: A satisfying meal with sausage, vegetables, and pasta in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs with ease.