Why Make This Recipe

Italian Sausage and Kale Soup is a comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients, making it perfect for chilly days. The flavors meld beautifully, and it offers a satisfying meal in a bowl. The addition of kale enhances the nutrition, while the Italian sausage adds a rich, savory taste. This soup is easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

How to Make Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

Ingredients:

• 375 g Italian sausage meat
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1.5 lbs russet or gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups chicken broth, low sodium
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup cream
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:

1. In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
4. Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
6. Season with black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt.
7. Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Serve hot.

How to Serve Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

Serve Italian Sausage and Kale Soup hot, either in a bowl or with crusty bread on the side. This dish pairs well with a simple salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

How to Store Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion, as it may thicken when frozen.

Tips to Make Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

• Use hot Italian sausage if you want a spicy kick, or mild sausage for a milder flavor.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition and flavor.
• If you like a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.

FAQs

Can I use frozen kale in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen kale. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the soup.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, replace the cream with coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the sausage in a skillet first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.