Description
A comforting one-pot Italian sausage tomato orzo soup made with savory sausage, tomatoes, tender orzo, Italian herbs, Parmesan, and fresh basil. Ready in about 30 minutes for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, mild or spicy
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, break it into crumbles, and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the remaining olive oil and chopped onion to the same pot. Cook for about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, broth, oregano, dried basil, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Return the browned sausage to the pot. Add the orzo and stir well. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo reaches al dente.
5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Taste and season with salt and black pepper.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil, then serve warm.
Notes
- Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
- The orzo absorbs broth during storage, so add a splash of broth or water while reheating.
- For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes.
- For a milder soup, choose mild Italian sausage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Keywords: Simple Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup, Italian sausage soup, tomato orzo soup, orzo soup