Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe

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Cook Time: 45 minutes

This luxurious, creamy soup is so irresistibly flavorful that its earned the proposal-worthy title. With savory Italian sausage, tender orzo, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, every spoonful is a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. Aromatic herbs and spices elevate the richness, making this soup both indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, julienne-cut and coarsely chopped
• 1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
• 1 pound mild Italian pork sausage
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 8 ounces uncooked orzo
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, coarsely chopped
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients and set them nearby for easy access.
2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes until it shimmers. Add the sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and nearly cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Saut, stirring frequently, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, roughly 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook while stirring constantly until the tomato paste darkens slightly and becomes fragrant, about 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and cream, then add basil, salt, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is frothy on top, around 12 minutes.
6. Add the orzo to the pot, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook uncovered. Stir occasionally until the orzo is al dente, about 8 minutes.
7. Lower the heat to low and fold in the spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Stir frequently until the cream cheese melts and the spinach wilts, approximately 5 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 801
• Total Fat: 55g (71% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 26g (130% DV)
• Cholesterol: 137mg (46% DV)
• Sodium: 2499mg (109% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 49g (18% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% DV)
• Protein: 29g (58% DV)
• Vitamin C: 24mg (27% DV)
• Calcium: 191mg (15% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (22% DV)
• Potassium: 971mg (21% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

The Story Behind Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup

Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup emerged in the early 21st century, riding the wave of recipes labeled marry me for their irresistible flavor and comforting appeal. The name suggests a dish so delectable that it could inspire a proposalan idea popularized by food bloggers and home cooks aiming to highlight indulgent, heartwarming meals. Its origins are distinctly Italian-American, combining traditional Italian ingredients like sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo with the creamy, hearty style beloved in American home kitchens.

Regional Variations and Influences

While the soup is broadly Italian-American, regional adaptations exist. In Northern Italy, a lighter broth and fresh herbs may be preferred, while in Southern regions, spicier sausages and richer, creamier bases dominate. In the United States, especially in Midwestern and Northeastern kitchens, the recipe often incorporates cream cheese and heavy cream to create a velvety texture. These adjustments reflect both local ingredient availability and cultural tastes, emphasizing warmth and comfort during colder months.

How It Differs from Similar Soups

Unlike minestrone or Italian wedding soup, Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup features a creamy base rather than a clear or tomato-forward broth. The combination of orzo and sun-dried tomatoes provides a unique texture and tangy depth, while the inclusion of cream cheese adds richness that sets it apart from traditional sausage soups. This marriage of creamy and savory elements gives the dish a distinct character, making it instantly recognizable among Italian-inspired soups.

Typical Serving Occasions

This soup is often served as a hearty main course for family dinners, cozy weeknight meals, or special occasions like winter gatherings. Its rich and filling nature makes it suitable for both casual home dining and elegant presentations at dinner parties. Some restaurants featuring Italian-American cuisine offer variations as a starter or small entre, highlighting its versatility in both home and professional kitchens.

Interesting Facts and Culinary Notes

• The Marry Me name has inspired numerous recipe spin-offs, from pasta dishes to chicken entrees, all aiming to capture that same proposal-worthy allure.
• Using orzo instead of larger pasta shapes allows the soup to thicken naturally, creating a creamy consistency without heavy reliance on starches or thickeners.
• Sun-dried tomatoes, a key ingredient, are packed with umami, which enhances the depth of flavor and balances the richness of the sausage and cream.
• The recipe is highly adaptable: swapping sausage for chicken or turkey can reduce fat content, and plant-based alternatives can be used for vegetarian versions.
• Some cooks like to prepare it in advance and freeze portions, as the flavors meld beautifully over time, making it a convenient yet luxurious meal option.

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