Hey there, friend! If you’re craving a bowl of something hearty, spicy, and downright delicious, you’ve come to the right place.
This Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup is my go-to when I need a little warmth and a lot of flavor.
It’s packed with smoky sausage, tender kale, and a kick of heat that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
1. Brown the Sausage Start by browning your spicy sausage in a large pot over medium heat. Break it up into bite-sized pieces as it cooks, letting it get nice and crispy around the edges. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the whole soup!
2. Sauté the Aromatics Once the sausage is cooked, toss in diced onions, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let them sizzle together until the onions are soft and fragrant. This is where the magic starts—your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Add the Broth and Simmer Pour in your chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let the flavors mingle and deepen for about 10 minutes. This is the perfect time to grab a spoon and sneak a taste (I won’t tell!).
4. Stir in the Kale and Beans Add chopped kale and white beans to the pot, stirring until the kale wilts and softens. The beans add creaminess, while the kale brings a pop of color and nutrients. It’s a win-win!
5. Finish with a Splash of Cream For a touch of richness, stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk. This balances the spice and adds a velvety texture to the soup. Give it one final stir, then ladle it into bowls and dig in!
Pro Tips
Kick up the heat: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you love a fiery kick.
Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Swap the greens: Not a kale fan? Spinach or Swiss chard work beautifully too.
Go dairy-free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a creamy, vegan-friendly version.
Storage
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
This Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup is a hearty, comforting dish packed with smoky sausage, tender kale, and a touch of creaminess. It’s easy to make, full of bold flavors, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
1lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
1medium onion, diced
3cloves garlic, minced
1/2tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
6cups chicken broth
1can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4cups chopped kale, stems removed
1can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1/2cup heavy cream or coconut milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
1
Brown the Sausage:
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into pieces, until browned and crispy. Remove and set aside.
2
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3
Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
4
Add Kale and Beans:
Stir in the kale and white beans, cooking until the kale is wilted and tender, about 5 minutes.
5
Finish with Cream:
Return the sausage to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
Amount Per Serving
Calories320kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat22g34%
Total Carbohydrate15g5%
Dietary Fiber3g12%
Sugars3g
Protein16g32%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a lighter version, use turkey sausage and skip the cream.
If you don’t have kale, spinach or Swiss chard are great substitutes.
This soup freezes well—just omit the cream if freezing and add it when reheating.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.
Keywords:
Spicy sausage and kale soup, easy soup recipe, hearty soup, weeknight dinner