Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup Recipe
A rich and comforting soup featuring a savory blend of orzo pasta, ground mild Italian sausage, and tangy banana peppers in a creamy, herb-infused broth. This hearty soup combines the sharpness of parmesan and cream cheese with aromatic herbs for a flavorful meal perfect for cozy nights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 heaping tsp minced garlic
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 lb ground mild Italian sausage
- 3/4 tsp salt (Morton’s Coarse Kosher Salt recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups shredded parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature for easy melting)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups diced banana peppers
Pasta
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta (Barilla orzo preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped green pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the ground mild Italian sausage to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in dried oregano, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the boiling broth and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until orzo is tender but still slightly firm, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Banana Peppers and Dairy: Mix in the diced banana peppers, evaporated milk, cream cheese, and shredded parmesan cheese. Stir frequently until the cheeses melt completely and the soup becomes creamy and smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer and Adjust: Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 5-7 minutes to blend flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, optionally garnishing with extra parmesan or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Using room temperature cream cheese helps it melt faster and blend smoothly into the soup.
- For a spicier version, substitute mild Italian sausage with hot Italian sausage.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the chicken broth slightly or add a little cornstarch slurry.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Banana peppers can be adjusted to taste or substituted with mild pickled peppers.
