This hearty kale and sausage soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With flavorful sausage and healthy kale, it’s both tasty and filling. Perfect for chilly days!
I love how quick it is to make, too. Just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer. My secret? A sprinkle of Parmesan on top makes it even better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This adds a hearty flavor to the soup. You can use mild or spicy, depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist!
Kale: Kale is packed with nutrients and adds a nice texture. If you can’t find kale, Swiss chard or spinach can be good substitutes. Just note that spinach cooks down more quickly, so you might want to add it toward the end.
Potatoes: Potatoes provide creaminess. Yukon Golds are my favorite because they’re buttery and hold up well in soup. You could swap them out for sweet potatoes for a different flavor, or omit them altogether for a lower-carb option.
Diced Tomatoes: They give a nice acidity to balance flavors. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, you can use them, just make sure to peel them first. For a richer taste, try using fire-roasted tomatoes!
How Do I Cook the Sausage Just Right?
Cooking the sausage properly is key. You want it to be well-browned for maximum flavor! Here’s how:
- Start off in a cold pan to allow the fat to render out. After the pan gets hot, it will help brown the sausage evenly.
- Break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. This helps it brown more nicely and gives you that great texture.
- Cook about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked through and golden. If there’s too much grease, you can drain excess fat before proceeding with the recipe.
How to Make Kale and Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious kale and sausage soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and warming meal. You can have this hearty dish ready in just about 40 minutes!
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, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside. This keeps the flavors for the base of your soup!
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—this will add an amazing aroma to your soup!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Mix everything well so that the flavors meld together. Your kitchen will start to smell incredible!
4. Add Broth and Potatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add in the potato chunks. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. This will help to create a nice, flavorful base for your soup!
5. Add Kale:
Stir in the chopped kale and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender. This adds color and nutrition to your dish! Feel free to adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful bowl of comforting goodness!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can use any type you prefer, such as chicken sausage for a lighter option or even a vegetarian sausage if you want a meatless version. Just ensure it’s seasoned well for great flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Kale?
If kale isn’t your thing, Swiss chard or spinach are excellent substitutes. Just remember that spinach cooks down more quickly, so add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This soup actually tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld. Just cool it completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
