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Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

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A hearty, comforting soup featuring savory Italian sausage, tender kale, and potatoes in a garlicky broth, finished with a splash of cream and Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you crave a soul-soothing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (hot or mild, casings removed)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 1/2 tsp dried fennel seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (about 6 cups)
  • 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced (about 1 lb)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon.
  2. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir in garlic, fennel seeds, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until veggies are softened.
  3. Stir in diced potatoes and chicken broth. Add bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
  4. Add chopped kale and simmer for 4-5 minutes, until kale is bright green and tender.
  5. Remove bay leaf. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  6. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with more Parmesan, and serve with crusty bread. Optionally, squeeze lemon over the top.

Notes

For gluten-free, double-check sausage and broth labels. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and skip the cheese. Add white beans for extra protein or swap potatoes for cauliflower for low-carb. Fresh herbs can be added at the end for extra flavor. Soup reheats and freezes well; add broth if it thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian sausage soup, kale soup, comfort food, easy soup, hearty soup, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, dairy-free option, meal prep, potluck

Find it online: https://evabake.com/italian-sausage-and-kale-soup-recipe-easy-hearty-comfort-meal/