Welcome to a comforting bowl of Creamy Sausage Kale Soup. This one-pot recipe is simple, hearty, and full of flavor. Packed with Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and rich cream, it’s a dish you can whip up with ease. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you need a quick meal that warms the soul. Ready to dive into this creamy delight? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Measurement Summary
For this creamy sausage kale soup, you need:
- 1 pound of Italian sausage, which gives great flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced for sweetness.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced for a punch.
- 2 carrots, sliced to add color and crunch.
- 2 stalks of celery, diced for texture.
- 4 cups of chicken broth to form the base.
- 1 cup of heavy cream for creaminess.
- 4 cups of kale, chopped and hearty.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced for heartiness.
- 1 teaspoon of thyme for earthy notes.
- ½ teaspoon of chili flakes to spice things up.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing.
- Salt and pepper to taste, to enhance flavors.
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.
Nutritional Information
This soup serves 6 to 8 people. Each serving offers:
- About 350 calories, depending on specific ingredients.
- Macronutrient breakdown:
- Protein: 18g from sausage.
- Carbohydrates: 30g from potatoes and veggies.
- Fat: 20g from cream and sausage.
This soup is not just tasty; it is filling and good for you! Each bite brings warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any day.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Sautéing vegetables
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns soft and clear. Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Stir the mix and cook for 5 more minutes. The veggies should be tender.
Browning sausage
Push the veggies to the sides of the pot. Now, add 1 pound of Italian sausage. I like spicy sausage, but you can choose mild if you prefer. Break the sausage into pieces with a spoon. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it gets a nice brown color all over. This step brings out the flavor.
Cooking Process
Combining ingredients
Once the sausage is browned, mix it with the veggies. Add 2 diced potatoes, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and ½ teaspoon of chili flakes. Stir well to combine everything evenly. The potatoes add a hearty touch to the soup.
Simmering for flavors
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Increase the heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer. Cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender. This simmering lets all the flavors blend together.
Final Touches
Adding cream and seasoning
After 15 minutes, stir in 4 cups of chopped kale and 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes. The kale will wilt and the soup will heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This step makes the soup creamy and rich.
Serving suggestions
Serve the soup hot in wide, shallow bowls. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. If you want, you can also garnish with fresh parsley. This dish looks great and tastes even better!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Soup
To get that rich, creamy texture, use heavy cream. It adds a smooth finish. If you want it lighter, use half-and-half. Always stir well after adding cream to blend it in.
For spice levels, start with half a teaspoon of chili flakes. Taste the soup and adjust. If you like heat, add more. If not, leave it as is.
Cooking Equipment Recommendations
For one-pot meals, a large pot or Dutch oven works best. Look for one with a thick bottom. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
Use a wooden spoon for mixing. It is gentle on your pot and perfect for breaking up sausage. A sharp knife makes dicing veggies easy and quick.
Time-Saving Hacks
Prep your ingredients before starting. Dice the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the kale. This speeds up your cooking time.
For quick cleaning, soak your pot in warm, soapy water right after serving. It makes scrubbing easier later. You can also use a liner for your pot if you want less mess.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily customize this soup. If you prefer turkey sausage, swap it for the Italian sausage. Turkey sausage gives a leaner option without losing flavor. For greens, try spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale. Both add unique textures and taste.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, check the broth label. Many brands offer gluten-free chicken broth. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It will still make the soup creamy and delicious!
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, add herbs like rosemary or basil. These can give your soup a fresh twist. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. This simple addition brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess. Enjoy the variations!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Let the soup cool to room temperature first. Place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When you are ready to eat, check for any signs of spoilage.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the soup, use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. The soup can last for about 3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat. Stir it often so it warms evenly. You can also use a microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. If it seems too thick, add a little chicken broth or cream. This helps keep the flavor rich and creamy.
FAQs
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
This soup can last up to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. The flavors will meld nicely as it sits. However, the kale may lose some texture after a couple of days.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Just cook the soup and let it cool before storing it. Keep it in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with creamy sausage kale soup?
This soup pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Crusty bread for dipping
- A fresh green salad
- Garlic bread for extra flavor
- Simple cheese toast for a comforting touch
These sides add texture and balance to your meal.
This blog post shared a detailed guide on making creamy sausage kale soup. You learned about key ingredients, how to prepare each step, and tips for perfecting your dish. I emphasized variations, storage info, and answered common questions.
Remember, this soup is not just tasty; it’s flexible and easy to make. Enjoy crafting your own version! With practice, you’ll make it just right for your taste. Happy cooking!
