Kale Potato and Sausage Soup
Cozy up with a hearty bowl of kale potato and sausage soup, packed with tender potatoes, flavorful sausage, and fresh kale. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, and my kale potato and sausage soup is one of my go-to recipes when I need something hearty and satisfying. It’s loaded with tender chunks of potato, savory sausage, and vibrant kale, making it a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect for cozy dinners at home or meal prepping for the week ahead.
This recipe came to life on a day when I wanted something simple yet packed with flavor. I had some potatoes that needed to be used, a bunch of fresh kale, and sausage in the fridge so I decided to toss them together. The soup became an instant favorite just like my cabbage roll soup did. What I love most is how adaptable it is; you can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand, and it’s always delicious.
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to make and fills your home with the best aromas, this kale potato and sausage soup is it. The flavors come together beautifully, and it reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens into your meal without it feeling like a chore. Trust me, once you try it, this soup will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation!
Items Needed
Each ingredient in this kale potato and sausage soup plays a crucial role in creating a flavorful and hearty dish. Here’s why they’re included:
- Salt and black pepper: Enhance and adjust the flavors to your liking.
- Ground sausage: Adds a rich, savory flavor and protein to the soup.
- Chopped onion: Enhances the overall flavor with its natural sweetness and depth.
- Minced garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic base to the dish.
- Diced potatoes: Contribute heartiness and a creamy texture when cooked.
- Chicken broth: Serves as a flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.
- Water: Balances the broth for a lighter consistency while maintaining volume.
- Kale: Adds vibrant color, texture, and a dose of nutrients.
Tools you’ll need
Before starting the recipe, you’ll want to have all your kitchen essentials ready. I recommend having the following items:
Ways To Customize
This kale potato and sausage soup is incredibly versatile, making it easy to tailor to your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some simple ways to customize the recipe:
- Switch the protein: Swap ground sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a different flavor or dietary preference.
- Try different greens: Replace kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a variation in taste and texture. You can even try roasted zucchini.
- Add more veggies: Throw in carrots, celery, or bell peppers to boost the soup’s nutrient profile.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk, or a dollop of sour cream for a richer consistency.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Experiment with seasonings: Incorporate Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
- Use sweet potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a subtle sweetness to the soup.
With these simple tweaks, you can make this recipe your own while keeping it just as delicious and satisfying!
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below.
How To Make It
In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat, add the sausage and cook, stirring and breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 10 minutes.
Add the onions and garlic and cook, stirring, for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the potatoes and pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add the kale and season to taste with salt and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about a half hour. Adjust the seasonings if needed.
Note
Be sure to break up the sausage into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even browning and distribution throughout the soup. This adds more flavor to every bite!
Storage
To store kale potato and sausage soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
For reheating, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator first for quicker reheating. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much during storage.
Helpful Hints
Pro tip: Perfect Potatoes
Dice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate, giving your soup a consistent texture in every bite.
- Use a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: These distribute heat more evenly, preventing the soup from scorching.
- Don’t skip browning the sausage: Browning enhances the flavor and creates a savory base for the soup.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning after simmering to ensure the perfect balance of salt and pepper.
- Prep ahead: Chop the vegetables and measure the ingredients in advance to make the cooking process seamless.
- Make it your own: Customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, like substituting other greens or potatoes.
- Watch the kale: Add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its bright color and tender texture.
Serving Suggestions
This kale potato and sausage soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread. A warm baguette, sourdough, yeast rolls, or even garlic bread is great for dipping and soaking up the savory broth. For a lighter option, try serving it with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
For an extra comforting meal, top the soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. You can also serve it alongside a baked potato or roasted vegetables to create a complete and satisfying dinner. If you enjoy a touch of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a little hot sauce over the top before serving.
This soup is also excellent for entertaining. Serve it in bread bowls for a rustic presentation, or pair it with a charcuterie board for a cozy gathering. Since it reheats well, it’s a great option to make ahead and serve for lunches or weeknight meals.
FAQs
Recipe
Kale Potato and Sausage Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups water
- 8 ounces kale cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat, add the sausage and cook, stirring and breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 10 minutes.
- Add the onions and garlic and cook, stirring, for another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the potatoes and pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the kale and season to taste with salt and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about a half hour. Adjust the seasonings if needed.
Nutrition
Equipment
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
