Sausage and Kale Soup

Sausage and Kale Soup is a rustic, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something hearty yet nutritious. Combining savory sausage, tender potatoes, creamy cannellini beans, and vibrant kale in a flavorful broth, this soup delivers rich taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or meal prep option, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling with simple, wholesome ingredients
• One-pot convenience for easy cooking and cleanup
• Packed with protein and fiber for a nourishing meal
• Easily customizable for different diets and preferences
• Perfect for leftovers and meal prep

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), casings removed
• Olive oil
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Chicken broth (low-sodium)
• Potatoes, diced
• Cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• Kale, chopped and stems removed
• Dried basil
• Smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. Sauté the Sausage: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, basil, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Veggies: Return sausage to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and add potatoes and cannellini beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Simmer the Soup: Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
5. Add Kale: Stir in chopped kale and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until wilted and tender.
6. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Make it creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.
• Swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Make it vegetarian by using plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
• Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra veggies.

storage/reheating

Let the soup cool before storing in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in intervals, stirring in between. If thickened during storage, add a splash of broth or water.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, just slice and brown it before adding to the soup for extra flavor.

Is this soup spicy?

It can be! Choose mild or hot sausage and adjust red pepper flakes to your taste.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors improve as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep.

How do I make it dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese or cream at the end.

Can I use canned kale?

Fresh kale is best for texture, but canned can be used in a pinch—just reduce cooking time.

What kind of potatoes should I use?

Yukon gold or russet potatoes work great, but red potatoes also hold up well.

Can I make this in the slow cooker?

Yes. Brown sausage and aromatics first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Does this soup freeze well?

Yes, freeze in portions and thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I add pasta or rice?

You can, but reduce the amount of potatoes or beans to balance it. Add pasta near the end of cooking.

How do I keep kale from getting bitter?

Simmering the kale until just tender helps reduce bitterness. You can also massage it before adding for extra softness.

Conclusion

Sausage and Kale Soup is a flavorful and filling option for any time of year, especially when you need something warm and comforting. With its savory sausage, earthy kale, and hearty beans, this soup delivers on both taste and nutrition. Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

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