Steam on the windows. That buttery sizzle from sausage hitting the pot. It smells like Sunday at grandma’sonly this time, it’s TikTok’s favorite weeknight win. This sausage potato and kale soup has been bubbling up all over Pinterest because it’s comfort in a bowl and wildly easy to make.
This cozy dish is loaded with golden potatoes, browned sausage, and tender kale in a savory broth that tastes like it simmered all daybut it didn’t. It’s the homemade version of your favorite sausage and vegetable soup, just quicker and way more pantry-friendly. Full details in the blog!
This meal reminds me of the blustery night I made it using only what I had left in the fridgeand my kids still talk about it. I’m all about recipes that are healthy-ish, hearty, and don’t require a second grocery run. I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
This hearty and comforting Hearty Sausage Soup combines tender potatoes and healthy kale for a delicious Potato and Kale Soup. Perfect as an Easy Sausage Soup or a one pot Sausage and Vegetable Soup, it’s a savory meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound 450 grams Italian sausage mild or spicy depending on preference
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
4 cups about 1 liter chicken broth
3–4 medium potatoes peeled and diced
4 cups kale washed and chopped stems removed
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces. Drain excess fat leaving about a tablespoon.
Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute.
Stir in red pepper flakes and dried thyme or Italian seasoning if using.
Pour in chicken broth and scrape browned bits from the pot.
Add diced potatoes, bring to boil, then reduce to simmer until potatoes are tender about 15-20 minutes.
Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted about 5 minutes.
Slowly add heavy cream or half-and-half and heat through without boiling.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan and crusty bread if desired.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 bowl
Calories:350 kcal
Sugar:4g
Sodium:700mg
Fat:22g
Saturated Fat:8g
Unsaturated Fat:10g
Trans Fat:0g
Carbohydrates:20g
Fiber:4g
Protein:18g
Cholesterol:60mg
Why This Sausage Potato and Kale Soup Is a Family Favorite
This soup delivers all the cozy, comforting goodness you crave in a meal. It’s hearty, rich in flavor, and brimming with delicious ingredients. Imagine the savory aroma of Italian sausage and garlic wafting through your kitchenit’s truly like a warm hug in a bowl. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of creamy potatoes, tender kale, and a deeply savory broth that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!).
What makes it even better? It’s a convenient one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to wash and more precious time to sit down and savor your meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, health-conscious fans of a delicious kale soup, or simply those who adore a hearty sausage soup, this recipe is always a hit.
We’re keeping the ingredients list simple, yet packed with incredible flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
Italian sausage: Choose mild or spicy, according to your preference. Either way, it lends a rich, savory depth that forms the backbone of this soup.
Potatoes: Opt for Russet potatoes for a wonderfully creamy texture, or Yukon Golds if you prefer a buttery, slightly firmer bite. Remember to peel and dice them uniformly for even cooking.
Kale: This nutritious green is a star! It’s hearty, packed with vitamins, and maintains its satisfying texture beautifully in hot soups.
Chicken broth: This flavorful liquid is the essential base that harmonizes all the ingredients. Use a high-quality boxed broth or homemade for the best results.
Heavy cream: For that signature velvety richness and touch of creaminess. For a slightly lighter option, half-and-half works wonderfully too.
Aromatics and Spices: Fresh onion, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes or thyme add layers of savory complexity and a little extra punch.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always taste as you go, as the sausage and broth can vary in their sodium content.
Bonus Tip: Want to elevate your soup experience? Serve with plenty of crusty bread for dunking and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an irresistible finish.
Simple Steps to Make It
This sausage potato and kale soup may taste like it simmered all day, but you’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily it comes together. Just follow these straightforward steps:
Cook the sausage: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage deeply, stirring occasionally, until no pink remainsthis takes about 5–7 minutes and will fill your kitchen with an incredible aroma. Drain any excessive fat, but leave a thin layer for flavor.
Sauté the aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook, stirring, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and, if using, red pepper flakes or thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add potatoes and broth: Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with your spoonthese add incredible depth of flavor. Add the diced potatoes, bring the liquid to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Finish with kale and cream: Uncover the pot and stir in the chopped kale. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the kale has wilted to your desired tenderness. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to warm it through. It’s crucial not to let the soup come to a rapid boil after adding the cream, as this can cause it to curdle.
Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired, and have that crusty bread at the ready for dunking!
Handy Cooking Time Summary
Step
Estimated Time
Prepping Ingredients
10–15 minutes
Browning Sausage
5–7 minutes
Sautéing Onion & Garlic
5–6 minutes
Simmering Potatoes
15–20 minutes
Adding Kale & Cream
5–7 minutes
Easy Customizations You’ll Love
Feel free to get creative and make this soup even more “you”! Here are a few ideas:
Swap the greens: If kale isn’t your favorite, fresh spinach or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes. Just remember to add them closer to the end of cooking, as they wilt much faster than kale.
Make it dairy-free: For a delicious dairy-free version, simply skip the heavy cream and stir in unsweetened full-fat coconut milk at the end. It adds a lovely silky texture without dairy.
Change up the potatoes: Experiment with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a delightful and slightly different twist on the classic flavor profile.
Add extra veggies: Don’t let leftover vegetables go to waste! Diced carrots, celery, or even zucchini can easily join the party, adding more nutrients and flavor without much extra effort.
Pro Tip: Love a bit of heat? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or opt for a hot Italian sausage right from the start for a bolder flavor kick.
How to Serve & Store It
This sausage potato and kale soup is truly best served fresh and piping hot. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or even a classic grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal. As for leftovers? They’re famously even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld!
Storage & Reheating Guide
Storage Method
Duration
Reheating Tips
Refrigerator
3–4 days
Gently warm on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
Freezer
Up to 3 months
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove as directed for refrigerated soup.
With these tips, a warm and comforting bowl of this cozy, hearty soup is always ready to enjoy!
Nutritional Highlights: Why This Soup Satisfies
This sausage potato and kale soup artfully combines nutrient-dense kale with satisfying starchy potatoes and savory sausage. The result is a well-balanced bowl, rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. These hearty ingredients not only provide immense comfort but also contribute to sustained energy and a feeling of fullness, making it a smart and nourishing choice for any meal throughout the year.
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Perfecting Sausage Potato and Kale Soup, One Simmer at a Time
After several rounds of tweaking and testingincluding a few too-salty moments and batches of regrettably overcooked kaleI finally landed on this Sausage Potato and Kale Soup recipe. It’s the direct result of real kitchen trials and honest family taste tests, now a reliable, cozy meal that expertly balances hearty sausage with perfectly tender potatoes and just the right touch of vibrant greens. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a labor of love refined for your table.
FAQs ( Sausage Potato and Kale Soup )
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
This recipe actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully. Prepare it a day in advance, cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze the soup for later?
This dish freezes well and makes great leftovers. Store cooled soup in freezer-safe containers up to 3 months. To thaw, leave overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain texture and prevent sticking.
How can I make this soup healthier?
Swap regular sausage for a leaner turkey or chicken sausage to lower fat. Use low-sodium broth and increase kale for extra nutrients. You can also reduce added salt and boost vegetable variety to keep it hearty but balanced as a healthy kale soup option.
Is this soup spicy and can I adjust it?
The standard version has mild seasoning, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat. Adjust spices to your tastethis flexibility makes the sausage and potato stew ideal for those who prefer mild or spicy comfort food soup.
What type of sausage works best in this recipe?
Use Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, depending on your preference. Ground sausage blends well for even distribution, while sliced sausage adds texture. Both choices provide the savory depth that makes this one pot sausage soup satisfying and flavorful.
Can I substitute potatoes with other vegetables?
Yes, you can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a twist. Just keep in mind sweet potatoes cook faster, so adjust simmering time accordingly. This swap works well if you want to add variety while keeping the meal hearty and comforting.
Conclusion
This hearty sausage soup is pure comfort that genuinely comes together in under an hourand you’ll love how the tender potatoes, savory sausage, and vibrant kale blend into a cozy hug in every spoonful. The rich aroma alone is enough to make any hectic day slow down and feel a little more peaceful. It’s the kind of meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent, perfect for winding down or warming up on any evening.
Here’s a little kitchen wisdom for you: feel free to switch up the greens or swap heavy cream for unsweetened coconut milk if you want something dairy-free without sacrificing that satisfying richness. As for leftovers? They taste even better the next dayjust reheat gently on the stove and maybe add a splash of broth to maintain that silky consistency. And a tip I picked up from decades of pantry play: always keep a loaf of crusty bread nearbyready to dip, soak, and savor every last drop.
Did this easy sausage soup spark any memories or inspire your own creative twist? I’d absolutely love to see your photos or hear about your favorite cozy soup nights in the comments below. Don’t forget to save or share this recipe with someone who truly deserves a little homemade warmth. After all, food tastes best when it’s made with love and shared with a sprinkle of good stories.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
