Let’s talk about comfort food with a healthy twist. There’s something about a hearty soup that just wraps around your soul like a cozy blanket, and when you throw in nutrient-packed kale, sweet potatoes, and lean turkey sausage, you get the best of both worlds-flavor and wellness. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that comes together without drama or a make-ahead meal that warms your whole week, this Turkey Sausage Kale Sweet Potato Soup has your name written all over it.
This recipe is inspired by the Publix style, which is known for approachable, fresh ingredients and bold, yet familiar flavors. It’s the kind of soup that’s robust, filling, and brimming with texture-from tender sweet potato chunks to the subtle bite of kale and the savory depth of turkey sausage. You’re not just eating soup; you’re eating comfort with a purpose.
Turkey Sausage Kale Sweet Potato Soup Publix Recipe
If you’ve ever wandered the aisles of Publix and marveled at the soups in their deli section, you might have wondered: Can I make that at home? The answer is a resounding yes. This recipe captures the essence of their signature turkey sausage kale sweet potato soup, with layers of flavor that taste like they simmered for hours but actually cook up in under an hour.
It’s:
- Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Hearty – Perfect for dinner or meal prep.
- Flexible – Easy to adapt to what’s in your pantry.
- Comforting – That classic Publix feel-good taste you crave.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a full rundown of what you’ll need to bring this soup to life. I’ll also note some optional swaps and extras to help you personalize it:
- Turkey sausage – 12-16 ounces, preferably mild or Italian-style. Look for a lean version for healthier cooking.
- Sweet potatoes – 2 large, peeled and cubed; the heart of the soup. Their natural sweetness balances the savoriness of the sausage.
- Kale – 4 cups, chopped; make sure it’s washed thoroughly to remove grit. Dinosaur kale or curly kale works best.
- Onion – 1 medium, finely diced; provides foundational flavor.
- Garlic – 3-4 cloves, minced; enhances aroma and depth.
- Carrots – 2 medium, sliced or diced; adds subtle sweetness and color.
- Celery – 2 stalks, chopped; contributes a mild, aromatic crunch.
- Chicken or vegetable broth – 6 cups; the liquid base. Homemade is best, but store-bought works fine.
- Olive oil – 1-2 tablespoons; for sautéing.
- Herbs & spices – 1 teaspoon thyme, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat), salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon; brightens the soup at the end.
Cooking Instructions
Cooking this soup is straightforward, but there are a few little tricks that make a huge difference. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:
- Prep all ingredients first – Dice the onion, chop the kale, cube the sweet potatoes, and slice carrots and celery. Trust me, this prep step makes cooking far less chaotic.
- Cook the sausage – Heat a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil if needed, and brown the turkey sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Once done, remove and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics – In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until onions turn translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This builds flavor from the ground up.
- Add sweet potatoes and broth – Toss in the cubed sweet potatoes, pour in the broth, and bring to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Season and return sausage – Stir in thyme, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the browned turkey sausage back into the pot.
- Add kale – Stir in chopped kale and cook for another 5-7 minutes until wilted but still vibrant green.
- Finish with lemon juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot – Ladle into bowls and, if you like, add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of richness.
Ingredient Insights
Here’s why each ingredient matters beyond just taste:
- Turkey sausage: Leaner than pork, providing protein without overwhelming fat. Adds umami and a meaty texture.
- Sweet potatoes: Rich in vitamin A and fiber; their natural sweetness enhances the soup’s depth.
- Kale: Loaded with vitamins K, A, and C. Its slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the sweet potatoes.
- Onions & garlic: The soul of any soup; create a foundation of flavor that permeates every bite.
- Carrots & celery: Classic mirepoix combo-these aromatics form the backbone of countless soups and stews.
- Broth: The medium that carries all flavors. Using low-sodium broth gives you control over saltiness.
- Herbs & spices: Thyme and paprika elevate the dish, while red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth.
Expert Tips
- Browning the sausage properly is key. Don’t rush; let it caramelize slightly for deeper flavor.
- Don’t overcook kale-it should be tender but still have a slight bite and vibrant color.
- Simmer gently-a rolling boil can break down sweet potatoes too much, making the soup mushy.
- Adjust consistency-if you like a thicker soup, partially mash some sweet potatoes against the side of the pot.
- Flavor layering-add herbs at different stages: some early for depth, some at the end for brightness.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeño or increase red pepper flakes.
- Creamy twist: Stir in ½ cup of coconut milk or cream just before serving.
- Vegetarian version: Substitute turkey sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Grain boost: Add cooked quinoa or barley for extra texture and protein.
- Herb variations: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile.
Final Words
This Turkey Sausage Kale Sweet Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The balance of flavors, the warmth of the broth, and the texture of fresh vegetables and sausage all come together to create a soup that’s both nourishing and indulgent. It’s perfect for meal prep, a family dinner, or even impressing friends with minimal effort.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In The Turkey Sausage Kale Sweet Potato Soup From Publix?
The main ingredients typically include lean turkey sausage, kale, sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, olive oil, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
How Long Does It Take To Prepare The Publix Turkey Sausage Kale Sweet Potato Soup?
Preparation usually takes about 15-20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25-30 minutes, making the total time around 40-50 minutes.
Can I Make This Soup In Advance And Store It?
Yes, the soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Is This Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the turkey sausage used is certified gluten-free and no additional gluten-containing ingredients are added, the soup is naturally gluten-free.
Can I Substitute The Turkey Sausage With Another Protein?
Yes, you can use chicken sausage, pork sausage, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the protein.
Is This Soup Suitable For A Low-calorie Diet?
Turkey sausage and sweet potatoes are relatively low in calories, and the soup is high in fiber and nutrients. However, calorie content depends on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
How Can I Enhance The Flavor Of This Soup?
To enhance flavor, consider browning the sausage before adding it to the soup, using fresh herbs, adding a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, or seasoning with smoked paprika for depth.
Can This Soup Be Made In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Yes, for a slow cooker, sauté the sausage and onions first, then add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours. In an Instant Pot, sauté first and then pressure cook for 10 minutes.
What Is The Nutritional Profile Of The Publix Turkey Sausage Kale Sweet Potato Soup?
The soup is generally high in protein, fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and iron while being relatively low in saturated fat. Sodium levels may vary depending on the broth and sausage used.
Can I Adjust The Soup To Make It Spicier?
Yes, you can add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat without changing the overall balance of flavors.