The Big Red Pot: Sausage Soup

Baby, it's cold outside is definitely the most appropriate Christmas carol around here these days. Temps are way down in the low 30's and winds are 15-20mph. VERY cold for us here at the beach.

So, this week the big red pot has been in heavy rotation simmering up some sausage soup. I know the name is kind of nasty, but trust me. This is GOOD stuff! And the major bonus? Only a few simple ingredients, and you're done. Dinner's on the table. Sorry, Kimberly, this one's the anti-vegetarian recipe.

Sausage Soup

1 lb. sausage (mild, or hot if you like spicy food)

1 large white onion, chopped

1 20 oz. can peeled, diced tomatoes

32 oz. chicken broth

1 tsp. basil

1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta

Dash of red pepper (if you like it hot)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Shredded mozzarella cheese

Remove casings from sausage. Brown in large Dutch oven. Add chopped onion and continue cooking until tender. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and red pepper. Bring to a boil. Add orzo and simmer for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese when serving. 

Options: If you want to add some extra veggies, you can add some chopped celery and sliced zucchini when you add the onions.