Sausage, Kale, and White Bean Soup

Sausage, Kale, and White Bean Soup is a hearty, rustic dish that combines savory sausage, tender white beans, and nutrient-rich kale in a flavorful broth. This comforting one-pot soup is perfect for cool weather and busy weeknights, offering a satisfying, well-balanced meal that’s both simple and deeply delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup brings together classic ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and nourishing. The sausage adds richness, the beans provide creamy texture and protein, and the kale brings a pop of green and a boost of vitamins.

• Hearty and filling with wholesome ingredients
• One-pot recipe for easy cleanup
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Naturally gluten-free
• Customizable with your favorite sausage or veggies

ingredients

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

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Carrots, sliced
• Celery, chopped
• Kale, chopped (curly or lacinato)
• White beans (cannellini or great northern), canned and drained
• Chicken broth or vegetable broth
• Olive oil
• Dried thyme
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Return the sausage to the pot, then add the white beans and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
6. Stir in the chopped kale and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until wilted and tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, optionally topped with grated Parmesan and a slice of crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and use a meat-free sausage alternative or add extra beans.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or blend a portion of the beans for a creamy texture.
• Spicy Style: Use spicy Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes.
• Add Grains: Add cooked farro, quinoa, or rice for an even heartier soup.
• Different Greens: Substitute kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
This soup also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, just slice or crumble and add after sautéing the vegetables to warm it through.

What type of kale works best?

Curly kale and lacinato (dinosaur) kale both work well—just remove the tough stems before chopping.

Can I use dried beans?

Yes, but they need to be cooked separately before adding to the soup unless using a slow cooker.

Is this soup spicy?

Only if you use spicy sausage or red pepper flakes—it’s easy to adjust to your taste.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it great for next-day meals.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad make great pairings.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes—brown the sausage and vegetables first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4.

Is this soup gluten-free?

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

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely. It freezes beautifully—just let it cool fully before transferring to containers.

How do I make it lower in fat?

Use turkey or chicken sausage and skip the Parmesan for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Sausage, Kale, and White Bean Soup is everything you want in a cozy meal—rich, nourishing, and easy to make. With minimal prep and tons of flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation. Whether you enjoy it fresh or from the freezer, it’s a bowlful of comfort every time.

Print