Creamy Sausage & Sweet Potato Orzo Soup
This rich and hearty soup combines the bold flavors of savory Italian sausage, sweet roasted potatoes, and tender orzo pasta in a creamy, herb-infused broth. With a perfect balance of smokiness, creaminess, and warmth, this dish is ideal for cozy nights or when you need a comforting meal. Fresh spinach adds a touch of brightness, while fragrant thyme and rosemary enhance the depth of flavor. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a favorite!
1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs)
4 cups (1L) chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
1 cup orzo pasta
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
2 cups fresh spinach
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes or until tender.
Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
Sauté Aromatics
Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, cooking for 1 minute.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Add orzo and let cook until almost tender, about 8 minutes.
Finish It Off
Reduce heat to low, then add heavy cream and roasted sweet potatoes.
Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt.
Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh herbs and an extra sprinkle of black pepper.
Tips for the Best Creamy Sausage & Sweet Potato Orzo Soup
Roast the Sweet Potatoes – Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. You can also air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for a quicker option.
Use Quality Sausage – Italian sausage (mild or spicy) gives the best flavor. You can substitute with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Adjust the Creaminess – Use heavy cream for richness, or swap with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
Cook Orzo Separately (Optional) – If you plan to store leftovers, cook orzo separately and add when serving to prevent it from soaking up too much broth.
Herb Boost – Fresh thyme and rosemary add an aromatic touch, but dried versions work too.
Make It Dairy-Free – Replace heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Serving Size: 1 bowl (~1.5 cups)
Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fat: ~22g
Fiber: ~5g
Sugar: ~6g
Sodium: ~900mg
Note: Values may vary based on ingredient choices.