As the sun sets on a chilly evening, the comforting scent of tomato wafts through my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace of nostalgia. On days when the wind howls outside, nothing feels quite as soothing as a bowl of Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup. This dish combines the rich flavors of creamy tomatoes with tender, tiny orzo pasta that not only fills the belly but also warms the soul.
I initially crafted this recipe on a whim, seeking a way to elevate the classic tomato soup my family adored. With just one pot and a handful of fresh ingredients, I discovered a delightful meal that turned into a weeknight staple. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a way to impress friends at your next gathering, this versatile soup adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat! Grab a cozy blanket, and let’s get cooking.
Why will you love this Tomato Orzo Soup?
Comforting warmth: This Tomato Orzo Soup is perfect for chilly evenings, providing a cozy embrace in a bowl.
Effortless preparation: With just one pot, you’ll save time on cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile ingredients: Adapt this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or proteins for a personalized touch.
Rich flavors: The combination of San Marzano tomatoes and heavy cream delivers a vibrant taste that delights every palate.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether serving your family or entertaining friends, everyone will love this hearty soup – a true comfort food classic!
Tomato Orzo Soup Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create your cozy bowl of Tomato Orzo Soup!
For the Soup Base
- San Marzano Tomatoes – Provides a sweet flavor and low acidity, perfect for a vibrant soup.
- Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and color, enhancing the soup’s richness.
- Onions – Builds the base flavor when sautéed; use yellow or sweet onions for the best taste.
- Garlic – Adds aroma and depth; use fresh minced garlic for maximum flavor.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth – Offers a savory liquid base; homemade broth elevates the dish’s heartiness.
For the Pasta
- Orzo Pasta – Gives texture and substance to the soup; cook separately to avoid mushiness.
For Creaminess
- Heavy Cream – Rounds out the flavors, making the soup comforting; temper before adding to prevent curdling.
For Garnish
- Fresh Basil – Imparts a fresh, aromatic finish; add just before serving to keep its vibrant flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional kick for a hint of heat; adjust to your preference.
Feel free to customize this Tomato Orzo Soup with any seasonal veggies or proteins you have on hand for even more deliciousness!
How to Make Tomato Orzo Soup
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Heat oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Watch for the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
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Sauté vegetables: Add 1 cup of chopped carrots and 1 cup of chopped onions to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
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Add garlic: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until the garlic releases its lovely aroma, ensuring you don’t burn it.
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Combine tomatoes and broth: Pour in 2 cans (28 ounces each) of San Marzano tomatoes and 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes to develop rich flavors.
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Prepare the orzo: While the soup simmers, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 1 cup of orzo pasta according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Blend the soup: Using a submersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, you can do this in batches with a regular blender.
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Stir in cream and orzo: Add in 1 cup of heavy cream and the cooked orzo to the blended soup. Gently simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing everything to meld together beautifully.
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Season to taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Don’t shy away from tasting it to ensure it’s just right!
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Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a vibrant touch. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Optional: Drizzle with a touch of olive oil for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Tomato Orzo Soup?
Create the perfect meal around a cozy bowl of this comforting soup, delighting your senses with warmth and flavor.
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Crusty Bread: This is a must-have, perfect for dipping. The chewy texture enhances the soup’s creamy richness, creating a delightful combination.
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Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette brightens up the meal, providing a peppery contrast to the rich soup.
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Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots won’t just charm your taste buds; their irresistible aroma adds an extra layer of comfort to dinner.
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Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches are the classic pairing. The melty, gooey cheese complements the soup’s flavors while offering an enjoyable crunch.
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Roasted Vegetables: Add depth to your meal with roasted seasonal veggies. Their caramelized flavors and natural sweetness balance the soup beautifully.
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Red Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, enhances both the soup and your dining experience. The tannins and acidity are a delightful match!
How to Store and Freeze Tomato Orzo Soup
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Fridge: Store your Tomato Orzo Soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch or dinner leftovers.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the orzo and cream for up to 3 months. Add the orzo and cream when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
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Reheating: When you’re ready to savor your soup again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding in fresh orzo to restore texture.
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Serving Tip: Fresh basil adds an aromatic finish just before serving, making your reheated Tomato Orzo Soup feel as vibrant as the day you made it!
Expert Tips for Tomato Orzo Soup
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Cook Separately: Avoid mushy orzo by cooking it in a separate pot instead of directly in the soup. This keeps your Tomato Orzo Soup perfect and textured!
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Tempering Cream: To prevent curdling, temper the heavy cream before adding it to your hot soup. Stir in a few spoonfuls of the hot soup to gradually warm it.
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Flavorful Simmer: Maintain a gentle simmer when cooking with San Marzano tomatoes to avoid bitterness. This helps preserve their sweet, iconic taste!
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Fresh Basil Boost: Add fresh basil at the end of the cooking process. This ensures you capture all its vibrant aroma, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup.
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Season Generously: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper; every ingredient shines through in this hearty Tomato Orzo Soup, so you want it just right!
Tomato Orzo Soup Variations
Customize this comforting soup to suit your taste and what you have on hand!
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Pasta Alternatives: Substitute orzo with any small pasta, like ditalini or mini shells, for a fun twist in texture. Each bite can bring a new experience!
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Go Green: Add chopped spinach or kale for a nutrient boost and a pop of color. It offers a fresh, vibrant taste that complements the creamy broth.
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Protein-Packed: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness. This adds not just flavor but makes the soup even more filling and satisfying.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano instead of basil for a unique flavor profile. Each herb brings its own delightful aroma!
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes to crank up the heat. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a little extra warmth in every spoonful.
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Creamy Variations: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a vegan take, adding a subtle sweetness and richness to your soup.
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Savory Additions: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini while sautéing for an added depth of flavor and crunch. It makes your soup vibrant and colorful!
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Lemon Zing: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing, making this cozy soup even more delightful!
Make Ahead Options
You can easily make your Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights! Prepare the soup base (excluding the orzo and cream) and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To keep the flavors intact, blend the soup before refrigerating to ensure a smooth texture. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the soup on the stove and stir in the cooked orzo and tempered cream for a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as when it was made fresh. This way, you’ll enjoy a cozy bowl of Tomato Orzo Soup without the fuss!
Tomato Orzo Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! I recommend using San Marzano tomatoes for their naturally sweet flavor and low acidity, which elevate this Tomato Orzo Soup. If unavailable, regular canned crushed tomatoes can work as a substitute; just add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity if needed.
How long can I store Tomato Orzo Soup in the fridge?
You can store your Tomato Orzo Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, and it will retain its comforting flavor!
Can I freeze Tomato Orzo Soup for later?
Very! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months, but it’s best to do so without the orzo and cream. Once you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. Add cooked orzo and cream just before serving for the best texture.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your Tomato Orzo Soup is thicker than you’d like, no worries! Gradually add small amounts of broth or water while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. Just ensure to let it simmer for a couple of minutes to integrate all those lovely flavors.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile for dietary preferences. For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. If you’re feeding young children or pets, make sure to skip any added spices like red pepper flakes, as they may not be suitable for them.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Tomato Orzo Soup?
I often recommend reheating on the stovetop for the best results. Gently heat on low, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. Remember to add fresh orzo if you’ve frozen it separately for that delightful bite!
Tomato Orzo Soup: Cozy Weeknight Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 cup of chopped carrots and 1 cup of chopped onions to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until the garlic releases its lovely aroma.
- Pour in 2 cans of San Marzano tomatoes and 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- While the soup simmers, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 1 cup of orzo according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
- Using a submersion blender, blend the soup until smooth.
- Add in 1 cup of heavy cream and the cooked orzo to the blended soup. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh basil.