Italian-Inspired Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup
This Italian-inspired sausage, potato, and kale soup is the ultimate comfort dish. Packed with the savory flavors of Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and the earthiness of kale, all enveloped in a creamy broth, it’s a delightful choice for cozy meals. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or simply craving a warming bowl of soup, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and simplicity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 4 cups chopped kale
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cook the Sausage
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes over the sausage for a slight kick of heat and mix well.
Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Leave the flavorful drippings in the pot, as they will serve as the base for sautéing the vegetables.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing its fragrant aroma.
Add Broth and Potatoes
Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to deglaze the bottom of the pot, ensuring all the flavorful bits are incorporated into the broth.
Add the thinly sliced potatoes to the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork.
Add Sausage and Kale
Once the potatoes are tender, return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the chopped kale, allowing it to wilt and become tender. This will take about five minutes. The kale adds a vibrant green color and a boost of nutrition to the soup.
Finish with Cream
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to enhance the flavors. Let the soup gently heat for another 2–3 minutes to ensure the cream is fully incorporated without boiling, which could cause curdling.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a piece of garlic toast for a complete and satisfying meal. This hearty soup is perfect for dipping and savoring every last drop.
Why This Recipe Works
- Comfort Food Favorite: The combination of creamy broth, savory sausage, and hearty potatoes makes this a family favorite.
- One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this recipe a weeknight hero.
- Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with protein, carbs, and leafy greens, it’s a well-balanced dish.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Heat: If you love spice, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or opt for spicy Italian sausage. For a milder soup, use sweet Italian sausage and skip the red pepper flakes.
- Kale Substitutions: If kale isn’t your favorite, spinach makes an excellent substitute. Add it just before serving as it wilts faster than kale.
- Cream Consistency: Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is an excellent make-ahead option. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchiness, which helps thicken the soup. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly creamier texture.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the soup may be slightly less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or a cashew cream.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the sausage and broth you use are certified gluten-free.
This Italian-inspired sausage, potato, and kale soup is a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a dose of comfort, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy every creamy, hearty bite!