When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup. This hearty, flavorful soup combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage, the creaminess of tender potatoes, and the nutritional boost of kale, making it a one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
What’s even better? You don’t have to be a professional chef to make this comforting dish. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality soup that your family will love.
Why You’ll Love Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this soup, but here are just a few:
- One-Pot Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Balanced Flavor: The spicy kick from Italian sausage pairs beautifully with the creamy broth and earthy kale.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy carbs, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
- Versatile: You can customize the recipe with substitutions or additions to suit your taste preferences.
Whether you’re serving it as a quick dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients for Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this delicious soup to life. Be sure to gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth and stress-free process.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Bulk Italian sausage | 1 pound |
| Half-and-half | 4 cups |
| Potatoes (cubed) | 3 cups |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Dried oregano | ½ teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ teaspoon (or to taste) |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Kale (torn into bite-sized pieces) | 2 cups |
Pro Tip: For the best flavor, choose high-quality Italian sausage and fresh kale. If you prefer less spice, opt for mild sausage instead of spicy.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup
1. Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Crumble the Italian sausage into the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned. This should take about 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the excess grease and set the sausage aside in the pot.
Tip: If you prefer a leaner soup, you can blot the cooked sausage with a paper towel to remove additional grease.
2. Add the Liquids and Vegetables
To the pot with the cooked sausage, stir in the half-and-half, cubed potatoes, chicken broth, whole milk, chopped onion, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
As the soup heats, the aroma of the sausage and spices will start to fill your kitchen—it’s a sign that you’re on the right track!
3. Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes cook evenly. You’ll know the potatoes are done when they’re fork-tender but not falling apart.
4. Season and Add Kale
After the potatoes are cooked, season the soup with ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the torn kale pieces and let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the kale is tender.
Tip: Kale cooks down significantly, so don’t be afraid to add a bit more if you’d like extra greens in your soup.
Serving Your Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup
Once your soup is ready, it’s time to serve! Ladle it into bowls and pair it with some crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. The creamy broth combined with the hearty sausage and kale makes for a satisfying and flavorful bite every time.
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
- Cut Evenly Sized Potatoes: This ensures they cook evenly and avoid becoming mushy.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Letting the soup simmer allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add Kale at the End: This helps retain its vibrant color and prevents overcooking.
- Customize the Spiciness: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
- Make It Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value for one serving of Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup (based on six servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 17g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Substitutions and Variations
- Sausage Alternatives: Swap Italian sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a lighter or plant-based option.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk in place of half-and-half and whole milk.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in carrots, celery, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets to make this soup keto-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen kale?
Yes, frozen kale works just as well. Make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Let it cool, pour it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove.
4. What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the sausage first, then transfer all ingredients (except the kale) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Definitely! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet flavor and pair wonderfully with the savory sausage and creamy broth.
Final Thoughts: Make This Hearty Soup Tonight
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup to warm you from the inside out. This recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding your loved ones on a cold night.
Whether you stick to the recipe or customize it to make it your own, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
