Hearty Sausage and Kale Soup
Hearty Sausage and Kale Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant kale in a rich, savory broth. This soul-warming soup is packed with nutrients and heartiness, making it the perfect meal for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something filling and satisfying. The blend of aromatic herbs like thyme and oregano, along with the optional addition of cream for a velvety texture, elevates the soup to a whole new level. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Half cup beans
1 bunch of kale, stemmed and chopped (about 4 cups)
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions:
Brown the sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside. Discard excess fat from the pot, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons.
Saute the vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
Simmer the soup:
Add the potatoes,beans, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the sausage and kale:
Return the browned sausage to the pot, stirring to combine.
Add the chopped kale and stir it in. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the kale is tender.
Finish and serve:
Stir in the heavy cream if you want a creamy texture (optional). Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
For a little brightness, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Notes:
Sausage choice:
You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference. Turkey sausage or chicken sausage can be used for a leaner option.
Kale prep:
Kale can be tough, so make sure to remove the thick stems before chopping. If you find kale too bitter, you can substitute it with spinach or Swiss chard for a milder flavor.
Broth options:
Chicken broth provides a rich base, but vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option. If you want a heartier base, consider using low-sodium beef broth.
Creamy variation:
For a creamy version, you can add heavy cream or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. You could also swirl in some sour cream for added tanginess.
Make-ahead option:
This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen the next day, making it even more delicious! You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Potato tips:
If you prefer a smoother soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher before adding the kale. This will thicken the soup without having to add extra cream or flour.
Add-ins:
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or celery if you have them on hand. Beans like white beans or cannellini beans also make a nice addition to this soup.
Serving suggestions:
This soup pairs wonderfully with a loaf of crusty bread or a side salad. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds richness and flavor to each bowl.
Enjoy your comforting and nourishing bowl of Hearty Sausage and Kale Soup! Perfect for cold days or when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry