Easy Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup Recipe

Winter’s chill can be tough to beat, but a warm bowl of soup can change that. This Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup is a real treat. It mixes the deep taste of Italian sausage, the creaminess of white beans, and the health benefits of kale. You’ll love the mix of textures and smells that make you want more.

Looking for a cozy meal or a healthy dish to start your day? This soup is perfect. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. It’s not just warm; it’s also good for you. Enjoy the creamy broth, the juicy sausage, and the fresh kale. This soup is sure to become a favorite at home.

Why This Hearty Soup Will Become Your New Favorite

Get ready to fall in love with this comforting and protein-rich immune-boosting soup. It combines savory sausage, creamy white beans, and nutrient-dense kale. This mix makes a satisfying and well-balanced meal, perfect for cozy winter nights.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Value

This Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup is full of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Kale, the star ingredient, boosts your immune system with its high vitamin C. Each serving also offers protein, carbs, and healthy fats, keeping you full and energized.

In just one bowl, you’ll get:

• Approximately 321 calories
• 12 grams of protein
• 16 grams of carbohydrates
• 17 grams of fat, including 6 grams of saturated fat

Perfect for Cozy Winter Nights

This comforting meal is quick to make, with prep time of 10 minutes and cooking time of 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. The hearty broth, tender sausage, and plenty of veggies make it a soul-warming dish. It’s sure to become a new family favorite.

“This soup is a game-changer on chilly winter evenings. The combination of savory sausage, creamy beans, and nutrient-packed kale is truly irresistible.”

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Soup

To make a delicious white bean and sausage kale soup, you need top-notch ingredients. At the center are Italian chicken sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and lacinato kale. These are joined by onions, carrots, garlic, and a tasty bone broth base.

Choosing organic, simple ingredients boosts nutrition and flavor. The Italian chicken sausage gives a savory taste. Cannellini beans add creaminess and protein. Meanwhile, lacinato kale brings crunch and lots of vitamins and minerals.

The bone broth is key to the soup’s flavor and nutrition. Made from chicken bones, it adds a rich, umami taste and nutrients like collagen. Mixing these ingredients makes a soup that’s both filling and full of health benefits.

Ingredient	Amount	Nutritional Benefits
Italian chicken sausage	1 lb, casings removed	Lean protein, flavorful spices
Cannellini beans	2 cans (15 oz each), rinsed and drained	Plant-based protein, fiber, minerals
Lacinato kale	1 bunch, stems removed and leaves chopped	Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants
Bone broth	6 cups	Collagen, amino acids, minerals
Onion	1 large, diced	Flavor, antioxidants
Carrots	2 medium, peeled and sliced	Vitamins, fiber
Garlic	3 cloves, minced	Flavor, antimicrobial properties

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a comforting white bean and sausage kale soup. It’s sure to become a family favorite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make the tasty Easy Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup, you need the right tools. You’ll need a large soup pot, a sharp knife for chopping, and a sturdy wooden spoon for stirring.

Recommended Pot Size and Tools

A large soup pot, at least 6 quarts, is best for this recipe. It gives enough room for all the ingredients and lets the soup simmer well. You’ll also need a sharp knife for cutting the onions, garlic, and kale. A wooden spoon is great for stirring the soup, ensuring it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.

Optional Equipment for Preparation

• A blender or food processor can help puree some beans for a creamy broth.
• For easier cooking, consider using a slow cooker or Instant Pot instead of stovetop.

With these essential tools, you’re ready to make this hearty and flavorful Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup.

Preparing Your Vegetables and Beans

Before you start making the Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup, you need to prepare your ingredients. First, chop the kale by removing tough stems and tearing or chopping the leaves into small pieces. You can also use a food processor to shred the kale leaves for a finer texture.

Then, dice the onion and chop the carrots into small, even pieces. Remember to rinse and drain the canned white beans before adding them to the soup. Properly preparing your vegetables and beans ensures the perfect texture and flavor in every spoonful.

Ingredient	Quantity	Preparation
Kale	4-5 packed cups, chopped	Remove tough stems, tear or chop leaves into bite-sized pieces
Onion	1/2 large yellow onion	Dice
Carrots	1-2 large carrots	Peel and chop
White beans	15 oz can	Rinse and drain

By taking the time to properly prepare your vegetables and beans, you’ll ensure the perfect texture and flavor in every spoonful of this delicious Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup.

Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup: Step-by-Step Instructions

Get ready for a tasty adventure as we show you how to make the Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup. This dish is both hearty and comforting, making it a new favorite at home.

Browning the Sausage

Begin by sautéing sliced Italian sausage in a big pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook until it’s browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.

Building the Soup Base

After cooking the sausage, add diced onions and carrots to the pot. Sauté them until they’re soft and smell good, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute, watching it doesn’t burn.

To deglaze the pot, pour in ⅓ cup of dry white wine or chicken broth. Scrape up any tasty bits from the bottom. Let the liquid simmer and reduce by half. This step is key to the soup’s rich flavor.

Adding Finishing Touches

Next, add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, kale, chicken broth, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer the soup for 10-12 minutes. This lets the kale wilt and the flavors mix well.

Finally, add half and half (or heavy cream for a richer soup). Adjust the seasoning to taste. The creamy broth and tender kale make for a comforting soup.

Remember, the secret to this recipe is to take your time. Let the flavors blend and the ingredients come together. Serve the Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup hot. Add grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Making the Creamy Broth Base

To make a rich, creamy broth, blend some white beans with the broth. This method adds thickness and flavor without heavy cream or flour. You can also use a roux or cornstarch slurry for a gluten-free option.

Here’s how to make the perfect creamy broth base:

1. Save about 1 cup of cooked white beans from the soup.
2. In a blender, puree the reserved beans with 1 cup of hot broth until smooth.
3. Stir the pureed bean mixture back into the remaining broth. This will thicken the soup and make it velvety.

Or, you can make a roux by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then whisk it into the soup to thicken.

For a gluten-free option, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering soup until it’s the right thickness.

Whichever method you choose, the creamy broth will wrap around the pureeing beans and other ingredients. It will make your soup smooth and satisfying.

Tips for Perfect Kale Preparation

Preparing kale for your Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup is key. A few tips can make all the difference in texture and flavor.

Removing Stems and Chopping Methods

Start by removing the tough stems from the kale leaves. Simply grasp the stem at the base and pull it away. For a finer texture, use a food processor or a sharp knife to shred or chop the leaves into thin strips.

Best Time to Add Kale

To keep kale nutritious and prevent bitterness, add it towards the end of cooking. This way, it wilts gently and stays vibrant. The recipe advises adding de-stemmed and chopped kale in the last 5-10 minutes of simmering. This ensures it’s tender and full of flavor.

By following these tips for de-stemming kale and shredding kale leaves, you’ll make a delicious Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup. Your family will surely enjoy it.

Customization Options and Variations

Make your Sausage and White Bean Kale Soup even better by trying different options. This hearty dish is very flexible. You can make it just how you like it.

Sausage Swap

Instead of Italian-style sausage, you can use other sausages for a new taste. For a spicy kick, try vegetarian soup or spicy sausage. Or, choose chicken or turkey sausage for something leaner.

Bean Bonanza

Try different beans like cannellini, navy, or great northern. Each bean adds its own flavor and texture. It’s a great way to discover new tastes.

Vegetarian Twist

For a meatless version, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. This vegetarian soup is great for those who want more plant-based meals. It’s still filling and tasty.

Vegetable Variations

Add extra veggies like celery, bell peppers, or zucchini. They make the soup look and taste better. They also add more nutrients.

With these options, you can make the soup your own. It’s a chance to show off your cooking style and dietary choices. Have fun trying new things and finding your favorite version.

Ingredient	Variation	Benefits
Sausage	Spicy, mild, or vegetarian	Allows for adjusting the heat and protein content
Beans	Cannellini, navy, or great northern	Provides different textures and nutritional profiles
Broth	Vegetable or chicken	Caters to vegetarian or non-vegetarian preferences
Vegetables	Celery, bell peppers, zucchini	Enhances flavor, texture, and nutritional value

“The beauty of this soup lies in its ability to be customized to your taste buds. Go ahead and experiment – your taste buds will thank you!”

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Proper storage and reheating are crucial for keeping your freezing soup tasty. Follow these tips to enjoy your freezing soup to the fullest.

Refrigerator Storage

Keep leftover freezing soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This keeps the flavor fresh and prevents spoilage.

Freezer Storage

Freeze your freezing soup in individual portions for leftover storage. This way, you can reheat only what you need. Place the soup in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

• When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the soup if needed to adjust the consistency.
• Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the soup in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until piping hot.

By following these simple reheating tips, you can enjoy your freezing soup days or even weeks after making it. Enjoy the flavors and convenience of this hearty dish!

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings	Calories	Rating
15 minutes	20 minutes	30 minutes	4	787 kcal	4.80 out of 5

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

Make your Sausage, White Bean, and Spinach Soup even better with some tasty sides. Try dipping crusty bread, like garlic bread or croutons, into the broth. It’s a great way to enjoy the soup’s flavors.

Adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta can bring a nice savory taste. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the flavor.

Recommended Bread Pairings

Enjoy the soup with slices of crusty, artisanal bread or warm garlic bread. The bread’s texture and taste will match the soup’s creamy comfort. It’s perfect for soaking up every bit of broth.

Cheese and Herb Options

Top your bowl with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a rich, umami flavor. You can also use crumbled feta or a dollop of sour cream. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil will bring a fresh, herbaceous taste to your meal.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in this flavorful and nutritious soup?

The soup features Italian chicken sausage, white beans like cannellini, and kale. It also includes chicken bone broth, onions, carrots, garlic, and seasonings.

What are the health benefits of this soup?

This soup boosts your immune system thanks to kale’s vitamin C. It’s also a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fats.

What equipment is needed to prepare this soup?

You’ll need a large pot, a sharp knife, and a wooden spoon. A blender or food processor helps with the creamy broth. You can also use a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

How should the vegetables be prepared for this soup?

Start by washing and chopping kale, removing stems. Dice onions and peel carrots. Rinse and drain white beans. Use a food processor to shred kale finely.

How can the broth base be made creamy?

Blend some white beans with broth to thicken it. This method avoids using flour or heavy cream. You can also use a roux or cornstarch slurry for a gluten-free option.

How should the kale be prepared for the best texture and flavor?

Remove kale stems before chopping. Shred kale finely in a food processor. Add it towards the end of cooking to keep nutrients and prevent bitterness.

How can this soup be customized?

Try different sausages like spicy or mild. Use various beans like great northern or navy. For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add celery or bell peppers for extra flavor.

How should the soup be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with extra broth if needed. Use the stovetop or microwave, stirring often.

What are some recommended serving suggestions and garnishes?

Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or croutons. Top with Parmesan cheese, feta, or sour cream. Add parsley or basil for a fresh taste. A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavor.