Cozy nights call for a warm and comforting bowl of goodness. And what better way to answer that call than with a hearty serving of orzo soup? This classic Mediterranean pasta dish has become a staple in many cuisines around the world, and its versatility is unmatched. Whether you’re craving something rich and creamy, bursting with flavor, or simply looking for a new twist on an old favorite, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the wonderful world of orzo soup recipes, highlighting 20 delicious and unique variations that are sure to become your new go-to comfort foods. From classic combinations like lemon chicken and creamy tomato, to international inspirations like Moroccan spiced and Mediterranean olives, there’s something for everyone.
So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s start our culinary journey through the world of orzo soups!
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing and flavorful Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. Tender chicken, plump orzo pasta, and a hint of citrus come together to create a deliciously comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, and onion)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the orzo pasta, lemon juice, and thyme. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tomato Orzo Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a chilly evening. This creamy tomato orzo soup is a twist on the classic tomato soup, adding a delicious and chewy texture from the orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried basil, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, then add it to the pot. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the orzo is fully coated in the creamy tomato sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Orzo Soup with Spinach and Feta
This creamy soup is a staple of Greek cuisine, perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year. The combination of orzo pasta, spinach, and feta cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the orzo pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese and a dollop of heavy cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Orzo Soup with Pesto
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of orzo pasta with the brightness of fresh pesto, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the vegetable broth, orzo pasta, and pesto. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Orzo Soup
Warm up with this hearty, spicy soup that combines the flavors of sausage, vegetables, and pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chicken broth, orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Orzo Minestrone
This hearty Italian-inspired soup combines tender beef, creamy orzo, and a medley of vegetables in a rich broth. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes, and cooked orzo to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Orzo Soup with Shrimp
A rich and creamy soup that combines the flavors of garlic butter, orzo pasta, and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Orzo Soup
Roasted Red Pepper and Orzo Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky roasted red peppers, creamy orzo pasta, and savory vegetable broth. It’s a delightful twist on traditional soups, with a pop of color from the vibrant red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add roasted red peppers, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in cooked orzo pasta and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Orzo Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful soup, inspired by the spices of Morocco. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a soothing meal to ease into.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the orzo and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Soup
This comforting soup combines the best of spring flavors – tender broccoli, nutty orzo, and a blend of creamy cheeses. A perfect bowl to warm up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add broccoli and cook until tender.
3. Add orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is cooked.
4. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tuscan White Bean and Orzo Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, made with creamy cannellini beans, nutty orzo pasta, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried white cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked cannellini beans, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and diced tomatoes.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until beans are tender.
3. Add orzo pasta and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until al dente.
4. Stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Lentil and Orzo Soup with Kale
Lentil and Orzo Soup with Kale Recipe
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Lentil and Orzo Soup with Kale combines the creaminess of orzo pasta with the nutty flavor of lentils and the earthy taste of kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water, orzo pasta, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the kale has wilted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Orzo Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of cream, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the satisfying bite of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked orzo pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo Soup with Olives
Mediterranean Orzo Soup with Olives Recipe
Warm up with this flavorful and hearty soup that combines the creamy richness of orzo pasta with the brininess of olives. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup chopped green olives
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the orzo pasta, vegetable broth, olives, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is cooked and the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin and Orzo Soup with Sage
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of seasonal flavors, featuring roasted pumpkin, nutty orzo, and the earthy warmth of sage. Serve it as a starter or main course to warm up on chilly fall days.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until softened.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, vegetable broth, cooked orzo, and chopped sage to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chickpea and Orzo Soup with Turmeric
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of Mediterranean spices and comforting texture, making it an ideal meal for any time of the year. With its subtle hint of turmeric, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chickpeas, orzo pasta, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Orzo Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender chicken, nutty orzo, and a hint of herbs. It’s an ideal meal for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed greens (parsley, basil, thyme)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the mixed greens and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot Ginger Orzo Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots, spicy ginger, and creamy orzo pasta. It’s an ideal comfort food for chilly days or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add broth, carrots, ginger, and orzo pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree until smooth.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Orzo Soup
This hearty soup combines the smokiness of bacon with the creamy texture of orzo, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo pasta, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is cooked.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Zucchini and Orzo Soup with Parmesan
A light and refreshing summer soup that combines the sweetness of zucchini with the nutty flavor of orzo, topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced zucchini and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the orzo pasta and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked.
4. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 20 delicious orzo soup recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup and Creamy Tomato Orzo Soup to international inspirations like Greek Orzo Soup with Spinach and Feta and Moroccan Spiced Orzo Soup, there’s something for everyone. Hearty and comforting, these soups are perfect for a chilly evening in. Try adding some spicy kick with the Spicy Sausage and Orzo Soup or get your greens on with the Lentil and Orzo Soup with Kale. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner, this collection has got you covered.
