A Hearty Bowl of Kale and Sausage Soup
This kale soup recipe combines hearty ingredients like sausage and potatoes for a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re a fan of traditional caldo verde or modern twists on kale soups, this recipe will become a household favorite. This soup is a fusion of tradition and creativity, inspired by popular recipes like Zuppa Toscana and Caldo Verde. In this article, you’ll discover how to make this soup at home with simple ingredients, learn tips to thicken the soup and explore ways to adapt it for various dietary needs. Let’s dive into the irresistible charm of this green soup that’s sure to become your new favorite.
What Makes Kale and Sausage Soup So Popular?
Kale and sausage soup has become a favorite soup among home cooks for its versatility and rich flavor. The combination of hearty ingredients like kale and potatoes, paired with the smoky depth of sausage, creates a balanced dish that satisfies both taste and nutrition. Soups like this are perfect for meal prep, easy to make vegetarian, and adaptable to your preferred level of spice or creaminess. Whether you’re inspired by Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana or looking for a healthier version, this soup offers endless possibilities.
The Secret to the Perfect Broth for Kale Soup
The broth is the heart of any great soup, and this kale soup recipe is no exception. Using chicken broth as a base provides a savory and comforting flavor. For a vegetarian twist, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll still have a satisfying dish. To enhance the broth’s richness, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of butter. The result is a soup made with love that’s both creamy and hearty without being too heavy.
Choosing the Best Sausage for Your Kale Soup
When it comes to sausage, the choices are endless. Hot Italian sausage adds a spicy kick, while chorizo brings a smoky, slightly tangy flavor. For a classic take on Caldo Verde, linguica is a traditional choice that pairs beautifully with kale and potatoes. If you prefer a milder option, sweet Italian sausage or even bacon can add depth without overwhelming the palate. Cooking the sausage first and using the rendered fat to sauté the onions enhances the overall flavor of this simple soup.
Why Kale is the Star Ingredient
Kale is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Its dark green, leafy texture holds up well in soups, making it an ideal choice for hearty dishes like this one. Both curly kale and lacinato kale work beautifully in this recipe. Before adding kale to the soup, remove the thick stems for a tender texture. Kale and potatoes are a timeless combination, creating a balance of earthy and creamy flavors. If kale isn’t your thing, feel free to use spinach instead of kale for a milder taste.
How to Add Potatoes to Your Kale Soup Recipe
Potatoes are essential for making this recipe both filling and flavorful. Yukon Gold potatoes bring a creamy texture, while sweet potatoes offer a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the smoky sausage. To prepare, peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and add them to the broth along with the sausage and onions. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender, ensuring every bite is infused with the flavor of this soup.
Tips for Thickening the Soup Without Heavy Cream
If you prefer a thicker consistency, there are a few ways to thicken the soup naturally. Mashing a portion of the potatoes directly in the soup pan is a simple way to achieve a creamy texture. Another option is to stir in the kale and let it cook longer, releasing its natural juices into the broth. For a gluten-free thickener, consider adding a slurry of cornstarch or blending a cup of white beans into the soup.
Making This Soup Vegetarian
To make the soup vegetarian, skip the sausage and opt for a vegetable broth base. Adding hearty ingredients like white beans or lentils ensures the soup remains filling and flavorful. Sautéing onions, garlic, and a pinch of smoked paprika will recreate the depth usually provided by sausage. Made a vegetarian version? You’ll find it’s just as satisfying and a great recipe for plant-based eaters.
How to Season Kale Soup to Perfection
Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavor of this soup. After adding the kale, taste with salt and pepper to adjust the seasoning. Garlic, onion, and a touch of paprika can elevate the broth. If you’re using hot Italian sausage or chorizo, their bold flavors will complement the seasoning, so keep the salt and pepper light. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors and balance the richness.
Incorporating White Beans for Extra Creaminess and Protein
White beans are a fantastic addition to kale soup, offering a creamy texture and a boost of protein without overwhelming the dish. Cannellini beans or great northern beans work particularly well, as their mild flavor blends seamlessly with the smoky sausage and earthy kale. Adding the beans during the simmering process allows them to absorb the flavors of the broth, creating a cohesive, hearty dish. For a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the beans before stirring them back into the soup.
These beans also make the soup more filling, turning it into a complete meal. If you’re making a vegetarian version, white beans are a perfect substitute for sausage, providing the necessary protein while keeping the dish satisfying and healthy. They’re also a great way to elevate a simple soup into something extraordinary, making it a favorite soup for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
How to Make Kale Soup Your Own
One of the best aspects of kale soup is its adaptability. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier version, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using hot chorizo. If you enjoy a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking. To make the soup more veggie-packed, toss in additional ingredients like carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
Even the type of kale you use can change the flavor profile. Lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale, has a slightly sweeter and less bitter taste compared to curly kale. Experimenting with these variations allows you to create a new favorite soup every time. Whether you’re aiming for a classic bowl of soup or a creative twist, the possibilities are endless, and this dish will never get boring.
Garnishing Kale Soup for the Perfect Finish
A well-garnished bowl of soup is not only visually appealing but also enhances the flavor. Popular garnishes for kale and sausage soup include freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or crispy bacon. For a vegetarian option, toasted breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a delicious crunch. Don’t forget to garnish with a few leaves of curly kale or parsley for a vibrant touch.
Storing and Reheating Your Kale and Sausage Soup
This hearty kale soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Transfer the soup back into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, use medium-high heat and stir occasionally to maintain the soup’s creamy consistency. Adding a splash of chicken stock or vegetable broth can help refresh the flavors after freezing.
Summary of Key Points
Kale soup with sausage and potatoes is a hearty, flavorful dish inspired by popular recipes like Zuppa Toscana and Caldo Verde.
Use chicken broth or vegetable broth as the base to create a rich and satisfying soup.
Sausage options like hot Italian sausage, chorizo, or linguica add depth, while white beans and kale contribute to a healthy balance.
For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and focus on seasonings like smoked paprika and garlic.
To thicken the soup naturally, mash some potatoes or blend white beans into the broth.
Garnish with Parmesan, crispy bacon, or breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
Print
Kale Soup Recipe with Sausage, Potatoes, and White Beans
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
Savor this hearty kale soup recipe with sausage, white beans, and potatoes. Perfect for a comforting, healthy meal packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped garlic
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 8 cups water
- 6 white potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 (15 ounces) cans of white cannellini beans (drained if desired)
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cubes vegetable bouillon
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Gather all ingredients.
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat; cook onion and garlic until soft, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in kale and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Stir in water, potatoes, beans, tomatoes, vegetable bouillon, parsley, and Italian seasoning.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are cooked through, about 25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: soup
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 277kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 372mg
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
Keywords: Delicious Kale Soup Recipe with Sausage, White Beans, and Potatoes