Description
Creamy Sausage & Butternut Squash Orzo Soup
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups butternut squash, cubed
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
Directions
Sauté Sausage & Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside. Add diced onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until fragrant.
Cook Butternut Squash:
Add the butternut squash to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Simmer the Soup:
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Add Orzo & Sausage:
Stir in the orzo pasta and browned sausage. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked.
Stir in Cream & Spinach:
Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and fresh spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts and the soup is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, and enjoy it warm!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: 430 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped (diced, cubed, minced) before heating your pot. Use a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for even cooking. When browning the sausage, avoid crowding the pot; work in batches if necessary to get a good sear. After removing the sausage, sauté the onions until translucent before adding the garlic to prevent burning. When simmering the squash, test for tenderness with a fork before proceeding. Add the orzo and stir frequently to prevent sticking. Finally, add the cream off the heat or on very low heat to prevent curdling, then stir in the spinach until just wilted.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a slice of crusty, warmed artisan bread or garlic bread for dipping. A light, crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness. For garnish, consider a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat alongside the fresh thyme.
How-to Summary
In summary: Brown sausage and set aside. Sauté onion and garlic. Add squash and season. Pour in broth and simmer until squash is tender. Stir in orzo and sausage, simmer until pasta is cooked. Off heat, stir in cream and spinach. Season to taste and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, but store it without the cream and spinach. Reheat the base gently, then add the cream and spinach just before serving to maintain texture and color.
How can I make this soup lighter? Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or full-fat coconut milk. For a dairy-free version, use a plain, unsweetened plant-based creamer.
Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely. Small pasta like ditalini or small shells work well. Note that cooking times will vary, so follow package directions.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, frozen cubed squash is a great time-saver. There’s no need to thaw it; just add it directly to the pot. You may need to extend the simmering time by a few minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not add the orzo too early, as it will continue to absorb liquid and can become mushy. Do not boil the soup after adding the cream, as this can cause it to separate or curdle. Do not overcook the spinach; it should just wilt. Finally, remember to season in layers—when cooking the squash and again at the end—for a well-balanced flavor.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sausage & Butternut Squash Orzo Soup is the epitome of cozy, satisfying comfort food. It masterfully combines savory sausage, sweet squash, and tender pasta in a luxuriously creamy broth. With its straightforward process and flexible ingredients, it’s a reliable recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. We hope this enhanced guide helps you avoid common errors and enjoy this delicious, hearty soup to its fullest.