In the cold months of the year, this Sausage and Kale Soup could easily become your best friend. It warms and fills you up just right.
I also love this meal because it’s a sorta Tuscan soup designed for the slow cooker and can also be easily frozen and cooked for a later day!
A previous version of myself would have insisted that you pre-cook the sausage with the onions before you place it in the slow cooker.
But this older, wiser, and lazier version of myself will tell you this: dump and go is the way to live an easier life and get dinner on the table with no effort! It’ll still be a delicious soup without the extra step.
So let’s get into my new recipe and get a filling dinner on the table in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Cook Time: High – 4-6 hours
- Main Ingredients: Ground turkey sausage, russet potatoes, kale, opinion, chicken bouillon, and more
- Servings: 6
- Extras: Add cannellini beans and other vegetables to get a more filling soup with more nutrition
- Tip: Don’t forget some fun toppings for your soup- add crispy bacon, croutons, treated parm, and sour cream. And include bread for dipping!
Savory Slow Cooker Sausage and Kale Soup
Here’s what you need – a bunch of cheap ingredients. I use turkey sausage for this because it is very lean, and you won’t end up with that layer of grease on top of the soup.
Also, note that I only ended up using 2 diced potatoes, not 4 as pictured, since I felt like it would be an over-full sausage soup.
I didn’t need as many potatoes to round out the soup as I thought, but if you like more potatoes and veggies, feel free to add as much as you want with a bit more bouillon or chicken broth.
I usually start with potatoes and onions before the other ingredients, but it doesn’t matter too much since everything will be covered in liquid.
Top with the hearty kale and sausage, and you’re almost there!
Once all the dry ingredients are in there, add 4 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of water.
Cook on high for 4-6 hours, and enjoy with crusty bread. I know you will make it again!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. of ground turkey sausage
- 2-3 diced russet potatoes
- 2 stalks/bundles kale
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cups water
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- 4 cups of whole milk
- 1 Tbsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 pinch cruched red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cook on high for 4 - 6 hours.
- Remove sausage from the soup.
- Chop or mash into smaller pieces. (Tip - use a standing mixer with the flat beater)
- Put the sausage back in the soup and serve.
Recipe Substitutions
The Meat
If you prefer a different type of sausage or have dietary restrictions, there are plenty of options available.
You can substitute the turkey sausage with chicken sausage, which is also lean and offers a similar texture and flavor profile.
Alternatively, for a richer taste, consider using pork sausage or Italian sausage for that extra fat content or even hot Italian sausage and chorizo for a spicy kick.
I’ve seen a few recipes use sweet Italian sausage, too, and that’s what I’ll do if I have some in the freezer waiting to be used.
For a plant-based option, use a vegetarian or vegan sausage substitute made from soy, tofu, or seitan.
Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as some sausages may cook faster or slower than turkey sausage.
The Vegetables
The flexibility of this recipe means you can easily swap out the potatoes and kale for other vegetables.
If you want different potatoes, Yukon gold potatoes and sweet potatoes do really well in the slow cooker. But for a low-carb version, replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips.
If kale isn’t your favorite, spinach or Swiss chard make excellent alternatives that are equally nutritious and add a different texture to the soup.
White beans (particularly cannellini beans) are very popular in sausage and kale soups because they add an extra layer of texture and heartiness.
Additionally, they are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making the soup even more nutritious and filling.
Lastly, consider adding carrots, celery, dice tomatoes, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies to make this soup your own.
Additionally, consider adding carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies to make this soup your own.
The Broth & Seasoning
Seasoning is key to any good soup, and this recipe is no exception. If you’re looking to tweak the flavor profile, start by playing around with the spices.
I use bouillon because it doesn’t cook off as much as chicken broth, and it adds salt, which creates a nice soup broth. But you can add more seasonings to make it exactly how you like it!
Instead of oregano, you might try thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note. You could also add minced garlic or Italian seasoning for extra flavor that’s strong and works with the sausage and kale.
If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, consider incorporating smoked paprika.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be added at the end for a burst of freshness.
Serving It Up
To elevate your Sausage and Kale Soup experience, consider adding a variety of toppings and side dishes that complement the hearty flavors of the soup.
Some excellent toppings include a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess.
Crispy bacon bits or toasted croutons can add a delightful crunch, while a handful of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives can introduce a burst of color and freshness.
The bacon makes it even more similar to Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana, which my family really enjoys!
When it comes to side dishes, crusty bread is a classic choice that never disappoints. A warm baguette or a slice of sourdough can be perfect for dipping into the savory chicken broth.
For a lighter option, serve the soup with a side salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the meal.
These accompaniments enhance the meal and turn it into a well-rounded dining experience that your family and friends are sure to enjoy.
Other Slow Cooker Recipes
And if you like this one, you might be interested in 40 other slow cooker dump recipes that are AMAZING!
FAQs
Could I freeze soup to meal prep for later?
Yes, this soup freezes well and can be easily reheated for a quick and delicious meal.
Make sure to fully cool the soup before placing it in an airtight container and freezing it for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute whole milk with another type of dairy or non-dairy milk?
While whole milk adds a rich and creamy texture to this soup, you can use any type of milk that you prefer.
Almond, coconut, or oat milk are all great substitutes for lactose-intolerant people or those following a vegan diet.
What extra vegetables can I add to Sausage and Kale Soup?
This soup can be easily customized to your liking by adding extra vegetables such as carrots, celery, or even bell peppers.
Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the veggies are cooked through. You can also add different herbs and spices for added flavor.
Is Sausage and Kale a keto soup, or can I make it Keto?
This soup can easily be made keto-friendly by using low-carb vegetables and substituting whole milk with heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative.
You can also omit the potatoes and use cauliflower instead for a lower-carb option.
Just make sure to check the nutritional information for any ingredients you substitute.
Can I make Sausage and Kale Soup on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop by sautéing the sausage, onions, and potatoes in a large soup pot before adding the rest of the ingredients and letting it simmer for about 30 minutes.
However, using a slow cooker allows for more hands-off cooking and a deeper flavor development.
Could I use an Instant Pot to make Sausage and Kale Soup?
Absolutely! You can make this recipe in an Instant Pot by sauting and boiling the soup in it just like you would a pot on the stove or use it as a pressure cooker.
You’ll want to saute the sausage and onion in olive oil for 6-10 minutes before adding in the potatoes and kale.
You’ll then add the broth to the soup pot and use the pressure feature on High to cook the soup for 10-15.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty dinner after a long day, and Sausage and Kale Soup fits that bill perfectly.
With its rich flavors, flexible ingredient substitutions, and ease of preparation, it’s a dish that’s sure to find a permanent spot in your meal plan.
Whether you choose to stick with the traditional recipe or experiment with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that promises satisfaction in every bite.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness—a perfect way to wind down and savor the cozy comforts of home cooking.
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