This Kale and Sausage Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, fresh kale, and hearty beans, it’s both filling and delicious.
I love how it warms me up on chilly days. Plus, it’s easy to make—just throw everything in one pot and let it simmer. Perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup, bringing rich flavors. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works well too! For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Kale: I love kale for its hearty texture and nutrition. However, you can substitute it with spinach orSwiss chard if you’re looking for something different. Just add them towards the end of cooking, as they wilt faster than kale.
Potatoes: They add body to the soup. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great choices. If you’re avoiding carbs, try using cauliflower instead for a lighter version.
Heavy Cream: To keep it lighter, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute. Coconut milk also adds a different flavor that can be delicious!
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has the Perfect Balance of Flavors?
Balancing flavors is key to a delicious soup. The first step is to properly brown the sausage; it adds depth to the broth. Make sure to scrape up the bits left in the pot when you add the broth—that’s all flavor!
- Cook onions until they’re translucent to release their sweetness. This will build a base flavor.
- Don’t rush adding the garlic. Just a minute in the pot is enough to wake up its flavors without burning it.
- Adjust seasoning at the end. After adding cream, taste before adding more salt or pepper—cream can mellow these flavors.
These small steps will enhance the overall taste of your soup, making it delightful and satisfying!
Kale and Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Kale and Sausage Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish! It’s quick enough for a weeknight and comforting enough for a cozy gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook 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. Try to leave some of the flavorful fat in the pot—it’ll help flavor the soup!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. This will build a lovely base flavor! Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute—this will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Build the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and the water, then add the diced potatoes and dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Sausage and Kale:
Toss the cooked sausage back into the pot and stir in the chopped kale. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the kale wilts and becomes tender but still vibrant.
5. Cream It Up:
Now it’s time to add a bit of richness! Stir in the heavy cream and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. If you love a little kick, add in the red pepper flakes too! Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.
6. Final Taste Test:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you feel it needs more salt or pepper, now is the time!
7. Serve It Up:
Enjoy your perfect bowl of hearty Kale and Sausage Soup hot, paired with some crusty bread or your favorite side. It’s delicious and comforting—perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy your hearty, creamy Kale and Sausage Soup!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage or mushrooms to replicate the texture.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare the soup in advance, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Use Kale Stems?
While the stems can be tough and fibrous, you can finely chop them and add them to the soup if you like! Just make sure to cook them longer so they soften, ideally adding them alongside the onions for the best texture.