Creamy Sausage Orzo Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Orzo:
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
   • Stir in the orzo pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Combine Cream and Cheese:
   • Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
5. Add Sausage and Spinach:
   • Return the cooked sausage to the pot, along with the fresh spinach.
   • Add dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Soup:

• Customize Your Protein: Swap Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add More Vegetables: Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers make great additions.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream and Parmesan creates a luxurious texture.
• Full of Flavor: Savory sausage and fresh vegetables make this soup hearty and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: Minimal prep and one pot mean less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.