Name: Sausage Kale Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound pork sausage (Italian, spicy, or breakfast sausage, all are delicious!); 1 onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional); 15 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained (one 15-ounce can); 15.5 ounces white beans (navy or great northern beans), drained and rinsed (one 15.5-ounce can); 4 cups reduced sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 cups Yukon gold potatoes, chopped; 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 7 reviews

I absolutely love sharing this Sausage Kale Soup Recipe with friends and family because it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of spicy sausage, tender potatoes, hearty white beans, and vibrant kale creates a comforting and flavorful dish that satisfies every craving. It’s the kind of soup I turn to when I want something wholesome, filling, and packed with good-for-you ingredients, all made in just one pot!

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Kale Soup Recipe

When I think about what makes this soup truly special, the first thing that comes to mind is the bold flavor profile. The spicy Italian sausage brings a rich, savory depth while the garlic, bell pepper, and Italian seasoning add layers of fresh, aromatic notes. The kale offers a slight earthiness and a lovely pop of green, and the potatoes and white beans make the soup hearty enough to be a full meal. Every spoonful feels balanced and satisfying, with just the right kick from optional red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Another reason I adore this recipe is how easy it is to pull together. It’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze, and most of the ingredients are pantry and fridge staples. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something nourishing but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile for different occasions, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or just a soothing meal to warm up on a chilly day. This Sausage Kale Soup Recipe never fails to impress and comfort at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot filled with a soup showing three main layers: the base broth is light yellow with oil droplets, mixed with small pieces of ground meat and chopped kale that add dark green spots throughout. There are several large slices of bright orange sweet potato floating on top, adding color contrast. A wooden spoon is partially submerged in the soup inside the pot. To the right, a small white wooden bowl contains red chili flakes, and fresh green parsley leaves are scattered on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredient list is delightfully simple, yet every component plays a crucial role in building the soup’s vibrant taste and comforting texture. The sausage brings savory richness, the onions and bell peppers add sweetness and crunch, while the beans and potatoes contribute heartiness. And of course, kale provides that fresh, nutritious green element that brightens everything up.

Pro Tip ✨

Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

1 pound pork sausage: I love using Italian sausage for its spicy, flavorful kick, but breakfast or other spicy sausages work wonderfully too.
1 onion diced: This adds sweetness and depth, softening as it simmers.
1 green bell pepper diced (optional): A subtle crunch and fresh flavor that brightens the soup.
15 ounces diced tomatoes (undrained): These bring acidity and body, creating a lovely broth base.
15.5 ounces white beans (drained and rinsed): Creamy beans add both protein and a pleasant texture contrast.
4 cups reduced sodium chicken broth: I prefer reduced sodium to control saltiness while keeping rich flavor.
2 cups Yukon gold potatoes chopped: These hold up beautifully during cooking and add that cozy, filling feel.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: A secret ingredient that deepens umami and enhances the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: I find this adds a gentle garlic scent without overpowering the soup.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Herbaceous notes bring the whole dish together perfectly.
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): If you like it spicy, this is a great way to add some heat!
4 cups kale (stems removed and chopped): Fresh kale adds color, nutrients, and a lightly chewy texture that I adore.

Directions

Step 1: Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat and cook the sausage until it’s browned and no pink remains. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once cooked, drain off all but about one tablespoon of the sausage grease to keep the soup flavorful but not greasy.

Step 2: Add the diced onions and green bell peppers to the pot with the sausage. Cook them together, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, roughly 4 to 6 minutes. This step builds the base flavors, so don’t rush it.

Step 3: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, rinsed white beans, chicken broth, chopped potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. You want the potatoes tender and all the flavors melding beautifully.

Step 4: Add the chopped kale to the soup, stirring it in until it wilts into the hot broth. Cover and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the kale is tender but still vibrant green and full of texture.

Step 5: Give the soup a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Then ladle it into bowls and serve warm. It’s comforting and perfect the moment it’s ready!

Servings and Timing

This Sausage Kale Soup Recipe makes about 6 hearty servings, ideal for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. Prep time is quick — about 10 minutes to chop and gather ingredients. Cooking takes roughly 40 minutes total, including browning the sausage and simmering the soup until tender and flavorful. There’s no resting time needed, so once it’s done simmering, it’s ready to enjoy!

How to Serve This Sausage Kale Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with a colorful soup showing large yellow potato chunks, bright green kale leaves, small round white beans, red tomato pieces, and light brown cooked ground meat pieces all mixed in a clear light brown broth. A metal spoon is standing in the soup, and the bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a part of a woman's hand visible at the edge holding the bowl. Another white bowl with the same soup is slightly visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this soup, I love pairing it with crusty rustic bread or warm cornbread to soak up the delicious broth. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the sausage and beans. For presentation, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top adds a lovely finishing touch.

For beverages, I find this soup pairs beautifully with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp dry white such as Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a glass of iced herbal tea brings refreshing balance. This soup shines at weeknight family dinners but also holds its own at casual dinner parties or cozy weekend lunches.

Serving the soup hot or warm is best to fully enjoy its comforting qualities. I usually portion it out in generous bowls with plenty of broth and toppings so everyone can customize their experience. It’s the perfect satisfying dish to gather around the table and savor.

Variations

I love how flexible this Sausage Kale Soup Recipe is when it comes to making it your own. If you want to switch up the protein, ground turkey or chicken sausage work wonderfully for a lighter option. For a plant-based twist, swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or vegan sausage crumbles — you’ll still get that hearty texture and bold flavor.

If you’re gluten-free, this recipe naturally fits your needs, just make sure your sausage and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free brands. To add a bit of a Mediterranean flair, I sometimes swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. You could also stir in some cooked pasta or grains near the end for extra bulk and texture.

For a chunkier soup, I leave the potatoes in larger pieces or even add diced carrots and celery. Cooking methods can shift too — I’ve made this soup in a slow cooker by browning the sausage and sautéing veggies first, then adding everything to the crockpot for a 4-hour low simmer. It all depends on how hands-on or hands-off I want the cooking process to be.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I like using glass containers because they keep the flavors fresh and are easy to reheat from. This soup will stay good for about 3 to 4 days, making it excellent for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this soup to enjoy at a later date. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some room for expansion. It keeps well frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results, then reheat thoroughly.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this sausage kale soup is gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This helps maintain the texture of the kale and soft potatoes without turning the soup mushy or overcooked. Avoid microwaving aggressively, as kale can sometimes get rubbery and unevenly heated.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?

Definitely! While Italian sausage is my go-to for its robust flavor, you can use breakfast sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage depending on your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, this Sausage Kale Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Just cool it completely before freezing and store in airtight containers. It should keep well for about 3 months.

Can I make this soup vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain depth of flavor.

What can I serve with this soup for a complete meal?

I love pairing it with crusty bread, a simple salad, or even roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of Parmesan or a side of garlic bread can elevate the meal too.

How spicy is this soup? Can I adjust the heat?

The heat comes from the sausage and optional red pepper flakes. If you prefer less spice, omit the red pepper flakes or use a milder sausage. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or flakes later to kick up the heat if desired.

Conclusion

I couldn’t be happier to share this Sausage Kale Soup Recipe because it’s truly one of those dishes that hits all the right notes — comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or a cozy dish to warm you up, this soup has got you covered. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do!