Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup: A Hearty Delight for Chilly Evenings

As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, nothing beats the warmth of a hearty bowl of soup. This Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is the perfect recipe to bring comfort to your table during the cooler seasons. Combining the spiciness of Italian sausage with the sweetness of butternut squash and the creaminess of heavy cream, this dish is a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 15 oz spicy Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs from Provence
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Red pepper flakes, to taste
• 1 cup orzo, uncooked
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 cups chicken stock
• 10 oz butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved, shredded, or grated (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Begin by Browning the Sausage: In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the crumbled Italian sausage with the Italian seasoning, fresh thyme leaves, and a dash of red pepper flakes. Stir regularly to ensure the sausage cooks evenly and breaks up nicely.
2. Toast the Orzo: Once the sausage has started to release its juices and is halfway cooked, add the uncooked orzo and minced garlic to the pan. Continue to stir for about 2 minutes on medium heat, allowing the orzo to get a slight golden color.
3. Simmer the Ingredients: Pour in the chicken stock and toss in the cubed butternut squash. Give the mixture a good stir, then cover with a lid and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the orzo and squash are tender.
4. Wilt the Spinach: Add the spinach leaves to the pot, cover, and allow them to wilt over low heat. This should take a few minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Add the Creamy Finish: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you find the soup too thick, you can thin it by adding a bit more chicken stock or water. For those who enjoy a spicier touch, sprinkle in some more red pepper flakes.
6. Garnish and Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional thyme leaves for an extra hint of freshness.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

This Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is not only a fulfilling meal but also a feast for the senses. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with the robust flavors of sausage and squash, makes it an ideal dish for any fall or winter dinner. Serve it with a crusty piece of bread to soak up every last drop, and enjoy the cozy embrace of this delicious comfort food.

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