This hearty kale and sausage soup is packed with flavor! It’s warm, filling, and made with tender kale, savory sausage, and rich broth that will make your taste buds dance.
What’s not to love? The combination of spicy sausage and fresh greens is simply delicious! I like to serve it with some crusty bread for dipping. Perfect for chilly days! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I recommend using Italian sausage for its rich flavor. You can choose milder or spicier sausage based on your taste. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey sausage works well, too!
Kale: Kale gives this soup a nice texture and nutrition. If kale isn’t available, you could use spinach or Swiss chard as a substitute—just add them later in the cooking process, as they cook faster.
Potatoes: I use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for creaminess. For a low-carb alternative, try cauliflower or turnips. You won’t sacrifice flavor, and they’ll add a unique taste.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is best, but store-bought works fine. For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth and use plant-based sausage.
What’s the Best Way to Get Flavor from the Sausage?
Getting the sausage perfectly cooked is key to flavor. When browning, ensure you break it into smaller pieces. This increases the surface area, letting it gain that lovely caramelization. Here’s how:
- Heat the olive oil in the pot over medium heat, then add the sausage.
- Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage apart as it cooks.
- Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
This process releases all the delicious flavors that will infuse the soup! Enjoy making this warming dish!
How to Make Kale and Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups kale, ribs removed and chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, delicious pot of soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. This will set the flavorful base for your soup!
2. Sauté the Onion:
Next, add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté the onion, stirring often, for about 3-4 minutes or until it turns soft and translucent. Onions add fantastic flavor to the soup!
3. Add Garlic:
Now it’s time to stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn—kitchen magic in a minute!
4. Incorporate the Potatoes and Broth:
Now add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Give it a good stir to combine. Bring everything to a boil! Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add the Kale:
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the chopped kale and red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice). Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
6. Season to Taste:
Give your soup a taste and add salt and pepper as needed to make it just right. Adjust the seasoning to match your personal preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your comforting kale and sausage soup hot. It’s perfect on its own or with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy every warm spoonful!
This hearty soup is sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can use any ground sausage you like, such as turkey sausage or chorizo, for a spicy kick. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change, so adjust your seasonings accordingly!
Can I Freeze Leftover Kale and Sausage Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
How Do I Make It Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies for extra nutrition!
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal!
