Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup with Orzo and Spinach (30-Minute, One-Pot)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a plate, leaving the fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Butternut Squash and Broth

1. Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

1. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

1. Add the orzo pasta to the blended soup and bring it back to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.

Step 6: Stir in the Sausage, Spinach, and Cream

1. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast.

Tips for Making the Perfect Soup

• Choose the Right Sausage: Mild Italian sausage adds great flavor, but you can use spicy sausage if you prefer a kick.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth for a delicious meat-free version. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for more flavor.
• Swap the Orzo: If you don’t have orzo, try substituting with another small pasta like ditalini or pearl couscous.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary at the end for an extra layer of flavor.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup with Orzo and Spinach brings together the best of cozy fall flavors in a way that’s both hearty and satisfying. The natural sweetness of the squash is balanced by the savory sausage and creamy texture, while the spinach and orzo add body and nutrients. It’s a comforting meal that warms you up from the inside out, making it perfect for cool weather.

What to Serve with This Soup

Pair this soup with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up the creamy broth. A simple green salad on the side also adds a nice contrast of freshness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup up to a day in advance, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well, though the orzo may absorb more liquid when thawed. Consider cooking the orzo separately and adding it in when serving.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup with Orzo and Spinach is the ultimate comfort food for cooler weather. Ready in just 30 minutes and cooked in one pot, it’s a perfect choice for those busy nights when you want something nourishing and delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a starter, this soup is sure to become a favorite!