When you think of comfort food, there’s a certain warm, inviting feeling that comes to mind. Pairing the Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup with crusty bread can elevate that experience.
A good sourdough or whole grain baguette is ideal for dipping. Alternatively, a light side salad, perhaps a simple arugula with vinaigrette, cuts through the richness of the soup without overwhelming the palate.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, a slice of lemon meringue pie offers a zesty counterbalance to this hearty dish. Washing it down with a glass of Pinot Grigio or a light lager makes for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug.
Imagine a chilly evening, the sky a canvas of deep blue, and the air crisp. You step inside your home, greeted by the fragrant aroma of a simmering pot on the stove. That’s the magic of the Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup.
Comforting, hearty, and packed with flavor, this dish can turn any day around. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night at home, this soup is perfect for sharing warmth and love.
But what is it about this soup that sets it apart? Is it the wholeness of the beans or the earthy greens that play a symphony of flavors? As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve whipped up my fair share of comforting soups.
This recipe stands out not just because of its tasty harmony but also thanks to the robust health benefits within every spoonful.
What is Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup?
Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup combines savory ground Italian sausage, nutrient-rich kale, and creamy white beans in a savory broth. This soup is a tribute to the Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its health benefits and enjoyment of whole foods.
Hearty and wholesome, it represents the idea of cooking with seasonal ingredients while celebrating warmth and nourishment.
In Italy, soups like this offer sustenance during the colder months, when vegetables are plentiful and hearty foods are necessary. With a base of chicken stock and a touch of cream, you’ll find yourself surrendering to its rich texture.
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What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup Recipes?
A key feature of this recipe is its balance between flavors and textures. The savory notes of the Italian sausage blend wonderfully with kale’s earthiness and the creaminess of the cannellini beans.
This recipe includes unique ingredients that elevate its overall profile. The addition of smoked sweet paprika and fresh thyme add depth without overwhelming the soup. You find hints of citrus from the lemon juice too, providing brightness against the rich foundation.
Additionally, while many recipes stick to basic seasoning, this version plays with texture. By lightly thickening the soup with cream and flour, each bowl becomes a creamy delight, thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. The result? A comforting hug from a bowl.
How Does It Taste Like?
The first spoonful of Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup presents a tapestry of flavor—rich meatiness, creamy beans, and tender greens all wrapped in a savory broth. The sausage provides a hint of heat, while the kale adds a slightly bitter counterpoint.
When you take a bite, the silky texture of the cream balances it all. Each sip is a comforting warmth, providing a perfect remedy to chase away the chill of the day. It’s that feeling of home, wherever you may find yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
1 pound ground Italian sausage
4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
1/2 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 stalks kale, stems removed and chopped
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 can white cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
5 cups low-sodium chicken stock
3–4 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 to 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
1–2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Allow it to brown until it’s cooked through. The fat rendered from the sausage provides a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the sausage is browned, add the sliced onions and garlic to the pot. Stir them in with the sausage and cook for another 4–5 minutes. This step enhances the flavors immensely and makes your kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes
Next, toss in the diced Yukon Gold potatoes. Stir them around to coat in the sausage-flavored oil, and then let them cook for a few minutes. This softens the potatoes and enhances their flavor.
Step 4: Introduce the Stock
Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are completely tender.
Step 5: Incorporate Beans and Kale
Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans and chopped kale. Stir to combine, and cook for another 5–7 minutes. The kale will wilt down beautifully, adding its vibrant green hue and healthy elements to the soup.
Step 6: Create A Creamy Texture
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream. This should be done cautiously to avoid lumps. Gradually add this mixture to your soup, stirring gently to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, letting it thicken.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, stir in the smoked paprika, fresh thyme, lemon juice, and season with salt and black pepper.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and enjoy every warming spoonful.
Tips & Tricks On Making Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, fresh kale, and quality sausage make a big difference.
- Customize the Protein: If you prefer turkey or chicken sausage, feel free to swap those in.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer longer after adding the cream mixture, or blend a portion before serving.
- Add Different Greens: Consider adding spinach or Swiss chard for variety.
- Get Creative with Seasoning: Experiment with other spices like Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for added complexity.
Nutrition Information
Sausage Kale And White Bean Soup Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Do I Store This Dish?
Storing this soup is simple. Let it cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3–5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in individual portions.
When you’re ready to enjoy more, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup?
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Both options can replace sausage if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Vegetarian Sausage: Perfect for a plant-based version while still delivering texture and flavor.
- Mixed Greens: Instead of kale, try collard greens or arugula.
- Quinoa or Barley: Adding these grains can make it heartier and boost the nutritional profile.
- Coconut Milk: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option that adds an unexpected creaminess.
Sausage Kale And White Bean Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes diced
- 1/2 small yellow onion thinly sliced
- 2 stalks kale stems removed and chopped
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 can white cannellini beans drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 3 –4 large garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
- 1 –2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes diced
- 1/2 small yellow onion thinly sliced
- 2 stalks kale stems removed and chopped
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 can white cannellini beans drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 3 –4 large garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
- 1 –2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Allow it to brown until it’s cooked through. The fat rendered from the sausage provides a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Once the sausage is browned, add the sliced onions and garlic to the pot. Stir them in with the sausage and cook for another 4–5 minutes. This step enhances the flavors immensely and makes your kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes
- Next, toss in the diced Yukon Gold potatoes. Stir them around to coat in the sausage-flavored oil, and then let them cook for a few minutes. This softens the potatoes and enhances their flavor.
Step 4: Introduce the Stock
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are completely tender.
Step 5: Incorporate Beans and Kale
- Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans and chopped kale. Stir to combine, and cook for another 5–7 minutes. The kale will wilt down beautifully, adding its vibrant green hue and healthy elements to the soup.
Step 6: Create A Creamy Texture
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream. This should be done cautiously to avoid lumps. Gradually add this mixture to your soup, stirring gently to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, letting it thicken.
Step 7: Season and Serve
- Finally, stir in the smoked paprika, fresh thyme, lemon juice, and season with salt and black pepper.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and enjoy every warming spoonful.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, fresh kale, and quality sausage make a big difference.
- Customize the Protein: If you prefer turkey or chicken sausage, feel free to swap those in.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer longer after adding the cream mixture, or blend a portion before serving.
- Add Different Greens: Consider adding spinach or Swiss chard for variety.
- Get Creative with Seasoning: Experiment with other spices like Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for added complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup keeps well, and the flavors will deepen over time. Just prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
Q2: Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes! The soup freezes wonderfully. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-friendly containers. It’ll last in the freezer for about 3 months.
Q3: Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, if you prefer fresh beans, soak and cook them prior to adding them to the soup. They may require additional cooking time.
Q4: What if I don’t like kale?
You can easily substitute any leafy green you prefer, such as spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens.
Q5: How spicy is this soup?
This recipe uses mild Italian sausage. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider using hot Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes to your dish.
Conclusion
The Sausage Kale and White Bean Soup is a dish that beautifully encapsulates comfort and nourishment. With its savory ingredients and creamy texture, it serves not just as food but as a moment of warmth.
This soup is versatile—easy to adapt and make your own while delivering endless satisfaction.
So throw on your favorite apron and get ready to whip up a pot. As you chop and sauté, think of the warmth it will bring to your dinner table.
Whether alone with a good book or gathered with friends, this soup has a way of fostering connections and creating delicious memories. Savor each spoonful, and let the goodness reveal itself. After all, in the hustle of life, a bowl of hearty soup is a reminder of home.
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more