Sausage Soup Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish

Name: Hearty Sausage and Kale Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian chicken sausage (or turkey sausage), casings removed; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced into small pieces; 2 stalks celery, diced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed and discarded); 1 can diced tomatoes, drained (15 oz); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

by Ava on February 13, 2025

Looking for a warm, filling meal that’s easy to make? Sausage Soup is your answer! Packed with rich flavors and comforting goodness, this dish is perfect for any day of the week. In this post, I’ll share simple ingredients, step-by-step cooking tips, and ways to customize your soup. Let’s dive into this hearty recipe that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger!

$- 1 lb Italian chicken sausage (or turkey sausage), casings removed - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 medium carrots, diced into small pieces - 2 celery stalks, diced - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed and discarded) - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped, for a vibrant garnish You can add your favorite veggies to mix things up. Try bell peppers, potatoes, or corn. If you want heat, add red pepper flakes. You can also swap the sausage for a plant-based option if needed. This lets you make the soup fit your style and taste. Each serving has about 320 calories. It includes 20 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, and 30 grams of carbs. This soup gives you fiber from the kale and carrots. It also packs a good dose of vitamins A and C. This makes it not only tasty but also healthy! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot. Use medium heat. Once hot, add 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and slightly golden. Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 medium diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Stir and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. The veggies should smell great and become tender. Now, take 1 pound of Italian chicken sausage and remove the casings. Crumble the sausage into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the sausage is browned. Stir often to cook evenly. Once browned, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it cook for another minute to release the spices' flavors. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Once it bubbles, add 1 can of drained diced tomatoes and 2 cups of chopped kale. Stir everything together. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. The kale should wilt and soften. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color. To boost the taste of your sausage soup, try these tips: - Use fresh herbs. Add thyme or bay leaves for a richer flavor. - Choose quality sausage. Good sausage makes a big difference in taste. - Add a splash of vinegar. A bit of balsamic or red wine vinegar brightens the dish. - Finish with olive oil. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil before serving for richness. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of: - Not browning the sausage. This step adds depth to the soup. - Skipping the sauté. Don’t rush cooking the vegetables; it builds flavor. - Overcooking the kale. Add it near the end to keep its vibrant color and crunch. - Ignoring seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper. Cooking times can vary, so keep these in mind: - For faster prep. Use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen kale. - If using regular sausage. Cook it a few minutes longer until it’s browned. - For a thicker soup. Simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce liquid. - If you're in a hurry. Use a pressure cooker for quick results, but adjust broth amounts. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh kale and high-quality sausages. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of your soup. Customize Your Greens: While kale is a great choice, feel free to substitute with Swiss chard or spinach if you prefer. Each green brings a unique flavor and texture. Adjust the Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. Adjust according to your preference. Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for an easy meal throughout the week. {{image_4}} You can switch the sausage type for different flavors. Try using Italian chicken or turkey sausage. Both options are lean and tasty. If you want more heat, go for spicy sausage. For a milder taste, sweet Italian sausage works well. You can even use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. This change keeps the soup hearty and satisfying. Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes can add depth. Use green beans or spinach for a fresh twist. Each vegetable brings unique flavors and textures. Just remember to chop them small for even cooking. You can also toss in some frozen peas for quick prep. This flexibility makes the soup fun and personal. Adjust the heat to match your taste. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also include jalapeños or hot sauce if you like it fiery. For a milder soup, skip spicy ingredients or add more broth. Taste as you go to balance the flavors. Finding your ideal spice level is all part of the fun! After you enjoy your sausage soup, let it cool first. This keeps it tasty. Transfer the soup into an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top. This helps the soup expand if it freezes. Label the container with the date. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, use the freezer. Sausage soup freezes well. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the soup for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot over medium heat. Stir it often to heat evenly. If the soup is thick, add a little broth or water. This will help bring back the right texture. You can also use a microwave. Put the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts. Stir after each burst until it is hot. Enjoy your soup just like fresh! Yes, you can make Sausage Soup in a slow cooker. First, cook the sausage in a pan. After it is browned, add it to the slow cooker. Then, toss in the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Pour in the chicken broth, tomatoes, and spices. Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the kale in the last 30 minutes. This method makes the soup very easy. You can serve Sausage Soup with many sides. A crusty bread works well for dipping. A fresh salad adds crunch and color. You might also enjoy it with a light pasta. If you want something heartier, serve it with rice or quinoa. These options will make your meal more filling. To thicken Sausage Soup, you have a few options. You can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this into the soup and let it simmer. Another way is to blend some of the soup in a blender. This gives it a thicker texture. You can also add more vegetables, like potatoes, to naturally thicken the soup. Sausage soup is simple and tasty. Key ingredients make a rich flavor. You can customize with optional ingredients. I shared steps to cook and enhance your soup. Avoid common mistakes for the best results. Feel free to try variations for new tastes. Store or freeze leftovers easily and enjoy them later. Follow the tips to make this dish perfect every time. Now you have the tools to impress with your sausage soup. Embrace the joy of cooking!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Comforting Warmth: This soup is the perfect remedy for cold days, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with kale, carrots, and tomatoes, this soup is a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and smoked paprika creates a rich flavor profile that can be adjusted to your taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Sausage Soup

– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage (or turkey sausage), casings removed

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 medium carrots, diced into small pieces

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed and discarded)

– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for a vibrant garnish

Optional Ingredients for Customization

You can add your favorite veggies to mix things up. Try bell peppers, potatoes, or corn. If you want heat, add red pepper flakes. You can also swap the sausage for a plant-based option if needed. This lets you make the soup fit your style and taste.

Nutritional Information per Serving

Each serving has about 320 calories. It includes 20 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, and 30 grams of carbs. This soup gives you fiber from the kale and carrots. It also packs a good dose of vitamins A and C. This makes it not only tasty but also healthy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

First, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot. Use medium heat. Once hot, add 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and slightly golden. Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 medium diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Stir and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. The veggies should smell great and become tender.

Cooking the Sausage

Now, take 1 pound of Italian chicken sausage and remove the casings. Crumble the sausage into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the sausage is browned. Stir often to cook evenly. Once browned, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it cook for another minute to release the spices’ flavors.

Combining Ingredients and Simmering

Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Once it bubbles, add 1 can of drained diced tomatoes and 2 cups of chopped kale. Stir everything together. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. The kale should wilt and soften. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color.

Tips & Tricks

Flavor Enhancements for Best Results

To boost the taste of your sausage soup, try these tips:

– Use fresh herbs. Add thyme or bay leaves for a richer flavor.

– Choose quality sausage. Good sausage makes a big difference in taste.

– Add a splash of vinegar. A bit of balsamic or red wine vinegar brightens the dish.

– Finish with olive oil. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil before serving for richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

– Not browning the sausage. This step adds depth to the soup.

– Skipping the sauté. Don’t rush cooking the vegetables; it builds flavor.

– Overcooking the kale. Add it near the end to keep its vibrant color and crunch.

– Ignoring seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper.

How to Adjust Cooking Times

Cooking times can vary, so keep these in mind:

– For faster prep. Use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen kale.

– If using regular sausage. Cook it a few minutes longer until it’s browned.

– For a thicker soup. Simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce liquid.

– If you’re in a hurry. Use a pressure cooker for quick results, but adjust broth amounts.

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh kale and high-quality sausages. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of your soup.
Customize Your Greens: While kale is a great choice, feel free to substitute with Swiss chard or spinach if you prefer. Each green brings a unique flavor and texture.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. Adjust according to your preference.
Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for an easy meal throughout the week.

Variations

Alternative Sausage Options

You can switch the sausage type for different flavors. Try using Italian chicken or turkey sausage. Both options are lean and tasty. If you want more heat, go for spicy sausage. For a milder taste, sweet Italian sausage works well. You can even use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. This change keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.

Adding Different Vegetables

Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes can add depth. Use green beans or spinach for a fresh twist. Each vegetable brings unique flavors and textures. Just remember to chop them small for even cooking. You can also toss in some frozen peas for quick prep. This flexibility makes the soup fun and personal.

Making it Spicier or Milder

Adjust the heat to match your taste. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also include jalapeños or hot sauce if you like it fiery. For a milder soup, skip spicy ingredients or add more broth. Taste as you go to balance the flavors. Finding your ideal spice level is all part of the fun!

Storage Info

How to Properly Store Leftovers

After you enjoy your sausage soup, let it cool first. This keeps it tasty. Transfer the soup into an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top. This helps the soup expand if it freezes. Label the container with the date. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, use the freezer.

Freezing Guidelines for Sausage Soup

Sausage soup freezes well. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the soup for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot over medium heat. Stir it often to heat evenly. If the soup is thick, add a little broth or water. This will help bring back the right texture. You can also use a microwave. Put the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts. Stir after each burst until it is hot. Enjoy your soup just like fresh!

FAQs

Can I make Sausage Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can make Sausage Soup in a slow cooker. First, cook the sausage in a pan. After it is browned, add it to the slow cooker. Then, toss in the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Pour in the chicken broth, tomatoes, and spices. Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the kale in the last 30 minutes. This method makes the soup very easy.

What can I serve with Sausage Soup?

You can serve Sausage Soup with many sides. A crusty bread works well for dipping. A fresh salad adds crunch and color. You might also enjoy it with a light pasta. If you want something heartier, serve it with rice or quinoa. These options will make your meal more filling.

How do I thicken Sausage Soup?

To thicken Sausage Soup, you have a few options. You can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this into the soup and let it simmer. Another way is to blend some of the soup in a blender. This gives it a thicker texture. You can also add more vegetables, like potatoes, to naturally thicken the soup.

Sausage soup is simple and tasty. Key ingredients make a rich flavor. You can customize with optional ingredients. I shared steps to cook and enhance your soup. Avoid common mistakes for the best results. Feel free to try variations for new tastes. Store or freeze leftovers easily and enjoy them later. Follow the tips to make this dish perfect every time. Now you have the tools to impress with your sausage soup. Embrace the joy of cookin

Hearty Sausage and Kale Soup

A comforting and nutritious soup featuring Italian chicken sausage, kale, and a blend of vegetables.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb Italian chicken sausage (or turkey sausage), casings removed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced into small pieces
2 stalks celery, diced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed and discarded)
1 can diced tomatoes, drained (15 oz)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden.
Next, incorporate the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery into the pot. Continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
Crumble the sausage into the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Once the sausage is nicely browned, sprinkle in the dried oregano, smoked paprika, along with salt and pepper. Stir well and cook for another minute to allow the spices to release their fragrant oils.
Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the pot, and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
After the broth begins to bubble, add in the drained diced tomatoes and chopped kale. Stir everything together until well combined. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the kale has wilted and softened to your liking.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper as desired.
Serve the soup hot, ladled into bowls and garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

Consider serving the soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For an added touch, drizzle a little olive oil over the top just before serving.

Keyword comfort food, healthy, kale, sausage, soup