This cozy kale and sausage soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With flavorful sausage and fresh kale, it’s packed with goodness and perfect for chilly days.
I like to whip this up when I’m craving something hearty and healthy. It’s super easy to make and always warms me right up. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: The star of the soup! I love using both sweet and spicy varieties for depth of flavor. If you want a lighter meal, try turkey or chicken sausage instead!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the soup. You can also use butter or a different oil, like avocado oil. Just keep in mind that different oils might change the flavor a bit.
Potatoes: Yukon gold or russets work great here. For a low-carb option, substitute with cauliflower or sweet potatoes for added sweetness!
Kale: Packed with nutrients, kale holds up well in soup. If kale isn’t available, you can substitute Swiss chard or spinach. Just remember to add spinach at the end since it wilts faster!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice kick! If you prefer less heat, you can skip this, or add a dash of black pepper instead for some warmth.
How Can I Make Sure the Sausage is Just Right?
Cooking the sausage well is crucial for great flavor. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly done:
- Start with medium heat to render out the fat, which adds richness to the soup.
- Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Let it brown a little; those crispy bits add amazing flavor to your soup!
Always ensure the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) if you’re using meat that isn’t pre-cooked.
What’s the Best Way to Incorporate the Kale?
Adding kale at the right time ensures it’s tender but not mushy. Follow these tips:
- Add the kale after the potatoes are tender. This way, it cooks quickly and retains its vibrant color.
- Simmer it just until it wilts, about 5-7 minutes. This keeps it nutrient-rich and adds a lovely texture!
Enjoy your soup! It’s not just hearty but also packed with health benefits, thanks to the kale and potatoes!
Kale and Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (preferably a mix of sweet and spicy), casings removed and sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks (such as Yukon gold or russet)
- 1 large bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as dill, parsley, or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything together. So, in less than half an hour, you can have a warm, delicious meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart into smaller pieces as it cooks. Let it brown until fully cooked through, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot using a slotted spoon and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté them until they become translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes aromatic. Stir these ingredients together to ensure they mix well!
3. Add Broth and Potatoes:
Now pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine everything. Add the bite-sized potato chunks and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
4. Incorporate Kale and Sausage:
After the potatoes are tender, it’s time to bring the soup back to life! Add the chopped kale and the cooked sausage back into the pot. Let everything simmer together until the kale is wilted and tender—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your soup with red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs of your choice. Serve hot and enjoy the warmth of this comforting dish!
This cozy kale and sausage soup is perfect for those chilly days, bringing together all the hearty flavors of sausage, potatoes, and kale in every delicious spoonful. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Any Type of Sausage for This Soup?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage adds a great flavor, you can use any type you prefer, such as chicken sausage or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary!
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time! You can prepare it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to eat. The flavors will develop even more!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even beans for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you include!
