Name: Hearty Sausage & Kale Soup – Perfect for Fall & Winter!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb sausage (Italian or smoked); 1 onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 potatoes, diced; 4 cups kale, chopped (stems removed); 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

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Short Description

This Hearty Sausage & Kale Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, ideal for chilly fall and winter nights. Packed with savory sausage, tender kale, and a rich broth infused with aromatic spices, this soup is a wholesome, one-pot meal that will warm you from the inside out. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Comforting: The combination of sausage, kale, and a well-seasoned broth creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile.
Nutrient-Dense: Kale is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, while sausage provides protein for a balanced meal.
One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal cleanup makes this an effortless weeknight dinner option.
Versatile & Customizable: Adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences with easy ingredient swaps.
Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it a convenient option for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Sausage (Italian or smoked)
Onion
Garlic
Carrots
Celery
Potatoes
Kale
Chicken or vegetable broth
Heavy cream (optional)
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Italian seasoning
Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the sausage into rounds or crumble it if using ground sausage. Dice the onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Mince the garlic and chop the kale, removing any tough stems.
Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 5 minutes.
Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the diced potatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Incorporate the Kale and Sausage: Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the kale. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
Finish the Soup: Stir in heavy cream if using, and season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning to taste.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Variations

Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the heavy cream or replace it with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips for a lower-carb alternative.
Extra Hearty: Add white beans or lentils for more fiber and protein.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Leave out the cream if freezing and add it when reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between heating.

FAQs

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for more heat.

Can I use frozen kale?

Yes! Thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the soup.

What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage (mild or spicy) works great, but smoked sausage or chorizo can add different flavors.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the sausage first, then add all ingredients (except kale and cream) to the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in kale and cream at the end.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad pairs well.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

How do I thicken the soup?

Mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) if a thicker consistency is desired.

Can I use a different leafy green?

Yes, spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens can replace kale.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.

What can I use instead of potatoes?

Sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or parsnips work well as substitutes.

Conclusion

This Hearty Sausage & Kale Soup is the perfect dish to enjoy during fall and winter. With its rich, comforting flavors, nourishing ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for cozy family meals. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or simply craving a bowl of warmth, this soup delivers every time. Try it today and savor the delicious, soul-warming taste!

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