This hearty kale and sausage soup is warm and comforting. It’s packed with tasty sausage, colorful kale, and nice seasoning for a big flavor boost!
I love how easy it is to whip up this soup on a chilly day. You just cook the sausage, add the veggies, and let it simmer. Perfect for cozy nights in! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This adds great flavor. If you prefer less fat, try turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian version, you can use plant-based sausage or skip it altogether and add more beans or lentils.
Kale: Kale is the star here, but if you dislike it, try spinach or Swiss chard instead. Both will wilt nicely into the soup. For more texture, you can also use collard greens.
Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess. You can swap them for sweet potatoes for a different flavor, or use cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup rich. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or coconut milk works well too. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk but keep in mind it might alter the flavor slightly.
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Sausage?
The sausage is a key ingredient that really drives the flavor of this soup. Here’s how to make sure you get the best out of it:
- Choose quality sausage that you enjoy. Spicy sausage will give a kick, while mild adds depth without too much heat.
- Don’t rush the browning! Cook it until it’s nice and crispy. That caramelization adds a ton of flavor to the overall dish.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Potatoes?
Getting the potatoes just right is crucial for texture. Here’s how:
- Cut your potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Test for doneness with a fork. They should be tender but not mushy. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes in the broth.
These tips will help you whip up a delicious kale and sausage soup that’s warm and satisfying! Enjoy it with some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Kale and Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (spicy or mild), sliced or crumbled
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups kale leaves, washed and chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat
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’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using crumbled sausage, just break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 1 more minute, so it gets fragrant but doesn’t burn.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
Next, stir in the diced potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil. After it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take around 10-12 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Kale and Seasonings:
Now, return the cooked sausage back to the pot. Add the chopped kale along with the dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender.
5. Finish with Cream:
Lastly, stir in the heavy cream and heat through the soup without bringing it back to a boil. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot kale and sausage soup in bowls, and feel free to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Enjoy it with some crusty bread for a delightful meal!
This hearty soup beautifully combines tender kale and savory sausage in a creamy broth with potatoes, making it the perfect comforting meal for those chilly days. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian choice. Just be sure to cook it until it’s browned for the best flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Kale?
No problem! If kale isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with spinach or Swiss chard. Both will wilt nicely and add a different flavor to the soup.
How Do I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
To make the soup dairy-free, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Almond or oat milk can work too, but they might change the flavor slightly.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or cream to freshen it up if needed.
