Let’s talk about comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down-the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out. Turkey sausage and kale soup is one of those magical dishes that feels indulgent, yet is packed with nutrition. Imagine the smoky, savory flavor of turkey sausage mingling with the earthy, slightly bitter taste of kale, all swimming in a warm, hearty broth. It’s perfect for cozy weeknights, meal prepping, or even impressing friends with a soup that tastes like it took hours to make, when in reality, it’s surprisingly straightforward.
Not only is this soup delicious, but it’s also a powerhouse of health benefits: lean protein from turkey, vitamins and minerals from kale, and the comforting satisfaction of a warm, slow-cooked meal. Plus, it’s versatile-you can tweak it to your heart’s content without losing its soul.
Turkey Sausage And Kale Soup Recipe
This recipe is a celebration of flavor, texture, and simplicity. The combination of turkey sausage and kale creates a satisfying harmony where the richness of the meat balances perfectly with the freshness of the greens. The broth is savory, with subtle hints of garlic, onion, and herbs, making it feel like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup. I’ll break it down into main categories for clarity:
Protein & Meat
- 1 pound turkey sausage (spicy or mild, depending on preference)
- Optional: diced chicken or turkey breast for extra protein
Vegetables & Greens
- 1 large bunch of kale (washed, stems removed, and chopped)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
Liquids & Broth
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for extra richness)
- 1-2 cups water, if needed to adjust consistency
Herbs, Spices & Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Optional Extras
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Crusty bread on the side
- A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Cooking Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into the step-by-step process. I’ll make it detailed but easy to follow:
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Prep Your Ingredients
- Wash and chop the kale into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the onion, celery, and carrots.
- Mince the garlic.
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Cook The Sausage
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the turkey sausage until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté The Veggies
- In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté until the onions are translucent and the veggies start to soften (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
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Build The Soup Base
- Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes.
- Stir in thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Add Sausage And Kale
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot.
- Add the chopped kale, stirring until wilted and vibrant.
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Simmer And Finish
- Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan if desired, and serve with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
Ingredient Insights
- Turkey Sausage: Lower in fat than pork sausage, yet still rich in flavor. Opt for high-quality sausage for the best taste.
- Kale: Nutrient-dense, high in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K. Make sure to remove tough stems for a tender texture.
- Carrots & Celery: Classic aromatic base for soups, adding sweetness and depth.
- Garlic & Onion: Flavor foundations; garlic adds a pungent warmth, onions add natural sweetness.
- Herbs: Thyme and oregano create a savory backbone, while optional red pepper flakes add gentle heat.
Expert Tips
- Browning the sausage first gives the soup a richer flavor. Don’t skip it!
- Wilt the kale last to maintain its vibrant green color and nutritional value.
- Adjust liquid levels depending on how thick or brothy you want the soup.
- Season gradually-it’s easier to add salt at the end than fix an overly salty soup.
- Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Hearty Bean Addition: Throw in a can of cannellini or kidney beans for extra protein and texture.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a velvety consistency.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the tomatoes if you want a very light, broth-focused soup.
- Pasta Lovers: Add small pasta shapes during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a filling meal.
Final Words
This Turkey Sausage and Kale Soup is a win-win: simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Its balance of savory sausage, nutrient-packed kale, and flavorful broth makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the recipe is endlessly adaptable-tweak the spice, swap veggies, or add beans without losing its comforting essence.
FAQs
Can I Use Turkey Sausage That Is Pre-cooked Or Should It Be Raw?
You can use either pre-cooked or raw turkey sausage. If using raw sausage, make sure to cook it thoroughly until browned before adding other ingredients. Pre-cooked sausage only needs to be heated through in the soup.
What Type Of Kale Works Best In This Soup?
Curly kale or Lacinato (Dino) kale are both excellent choices. Curly kale offers a more robust texture, while Lacinato kale is slightly sweeter and more tender. Remove the tough stems before chopping.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the texture of the kale.
Is It Possible To Make This Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Absolutely. For a slow cooker, brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for the sausage, then pressure cook with the remaining ingredients for about 10 minutes.
What Broth Should I Use For The Soup?
Chicken broth is most commonly used, but vegetable broth can be used for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly flavor. Choose a low-sodium broth if you want more control over the salt content.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Soup?
Yes, vegetables such as carrots, celery, potatoes, or bell peppers complement the flavors well. Add heartier vegetables like potatoes at the beginning of cooking and quicker-cooking vegetables towards the end.
How Do I Make The Soup Thicker If Desired?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables or add a small amount of cooked rice, beans, or lentils. Alternatively, simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid slightly.
What Seasonings Work Best With Turkey Sausage And Kale Soup?
Common seasonings include garlic, onion, thyme, rosemary, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor just before serving.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead Of Turkey Sausage?
Yes, ground turkey can be used. Brown it with seasonings such as garlic, paprika, fennel, or Italian herbs to mimic the flavor of sausage. Keep in mind that it will produce a milder, less spiced taste.
How Long Does This Soup Take To Cook From Start To Finish?
From start to finish, including prepping ingredients and browning the sausage, the soup usually takes about 30-40 minutes on the stovetop. Slow cooker or Instant Pot methods may vary in cooking time.