This hearty kale and sausage soup is warm and filling! It combines tasty sausage with fresh kale, potatoes, and a hint of seasoning, making it comforting and delicious.
I love how this soup warms me up on chilly days. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! Serve it with crusty bread, and you’ll feel cozy in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I like using Italian sausage for its great flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works too! Try using plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Kale: Kale is my top choice for this soup because it holds up well in the broth. If you can’t find kale, Swiss chard or spinach can work too. Keep in mind that spinach cooks faster, so add it later in the recipe.
Chicken Broth: Homemade chicken broth is lovely if you have it, but store-bought works just fine. For a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth.
Heavy Cream: I often use heavy cream for richness, but half-and-half or coconut milk are good alternatives if you’re watching calories or prefer dairy-free options.
How Can I Ensure My Soup Has the Right Flavor?
Building layers of flavor is important! Sauté the onions and garlic in the fat rendered from the sausage. This step adds depth to your soup. Remember to season throughout the cooking process, especially after adding the cream to balance the flavors.
- Cook the sausage fully before adding other ingredients; this enhances the broth’s flavor.
- Taste the soup before serving. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preference.
What’s the Best Way to Handle Kale for Cooking?
When using kale, remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. This makes them easier to eat and helps them cook faster. Be sure to add the kale towards the end of cooking so it maintains some of its vibrant color and nutrition!
Kale and Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1-2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour from start to finish. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sausage:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking it for about 6-8 minutes, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful fat in the pot.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté the onion for about 4-5 minutes until it’s softened and becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Your kitchen should be smelling wonderful by now!
3. Combining Ingredients:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot, along with the diced potatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like some heat), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine nicely!
4. Simmering the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can check their doneness by poking them with a fork—they should be easily pierced.
5. Adding the Kale:
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the chopped kale. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the kale to wilt and become tender. It should make your soup look vibrant and fresh!
6. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the heavy cream gently—make sure not to boil the soup after adding it to keep everything smooth and creamy. Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if needed to suit your taste.
7. Serving:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you want, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your bowl of warmth with a slice of crusty bread on the side for a delightful meal!
This rich and creamy kale and sausage soup is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting dish. Packed with flavor, it combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and nutritious kale in a delicious broth. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option, or even vegetarian sausage if you want a meatless soup. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead! Prepare it up to the point of adding the cream, then let it cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before adding the cream.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat. If the soup thickens too much, add a little extra broth or cream to loosen it up.
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Kale?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of kale, you can substitute it with Swiss chard or spinach. Just remember that spinach cooks faster, so add it closer to the end of the cooking time, letting it wilt for just a few minutes.
