Sausage Soup
This sausage soup is a heartwarming blend of flavors, featuring savory beef smoked sausage, tender potatoes, and wholesome white beans. The addition of kale adds a vibrant touch, making each spoonful nourishing and satisfying.
With just the right balance of Italian seasoning and a squeeze of lemon, this soup delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. The richness of the sausage and the earthiness of the vegetables come together perfectly in a hearty, filling dish.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat, this sausage soup is sure to please. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete, delicious experience.
Sausage Soup Ingredients
The beef smoked sausage infuses the soup with rich, smoky flavors, creating a savory base. Tender potatoes bring a comforting, hearty texture, perfectly complementing the other ingredients. White beans add a creamy body, balancing the richness of the sausage.
Vibrant kale offers a burst of color and nutrition, wilting gently into the soup for a fresh, earthy taste. Aromatic garlic, seasoned with Italian herbs and a touch of white pepper, elevates the depth of flavor, while a squeeze of lemon brightens the entire dish.
Recipe Tips
- Browning the Sausage: When searing the beef smoked sausage, be sure to let it brown well before adding the onions. This step develops a deeper, richer flavor and gives the sausage a slightly crispy texture, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
- Adjusting the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the level of black pepper and white pepper according to your taste. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to kick up the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- Enhancing the Soup’s Body: To make the soup extra creamy, you can mash a portion of the potatoes after they’ve softened. This will help thicken the broth and give it a rich, velvety texture, without needing to add cream.
What to Serve with Sausage Soup
- Crusty Bread: This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread. The bread can be used to soak up the savory broth and add a satisfying crunch to each bite. A fresh baguette or sourdough would be ideal for dipping.
- A Fresh Salad: Complement the rich and comforting nature of the sausage soup with a light, crisp salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the soup’s warmth, balancing out the richness of the dish.
- Cheese and Crackers: A side of cheese and crackers is another great option. Choose a mild cheese like mozzarella or a sharp cheddar to pair with the soup. The crunchy crackers add texture, and the cheese enhances the flavor profile with its creamy richness.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the beef smoked sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a spicy sausage like chorizo for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the sausage soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop when ready to enjoy.
4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by replacing the sausage with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a fully vegetarian dish.
Sausage Soup
Ingredients
- Beef smoked sausage 14 ounces, sliced into bite-sized rounds
- 1 large onion finely diced
- Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper pinches to taste
- Ground white pepper ½ teaspoon
- Garlic 4 cloves, minced
- Russet potatoes 3 small, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- Chicken stock or broth 6 cups
- Organic navy beans 2 cans, 15 ounces each, drained and rinsed
- Kale 2 cups, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Lemon ½ teaspoon, a tiny squeeze
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all ingredients, ensuring they are organized and ready to use.
- In a large soup pot, heat over medium-high heat and add the slices of beef smoked sausage. There is no need for added oil, as the sausage will release its own fat. Allow the sausage to sear for a few minutes until browned on both sides.
- Add the diced onion to the pot, followed by the Italian seasoning, black pepper, and white pepper. Sauté together with the sausage until the onions become soft and golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Incorporate the diced potatoes into the pot, followed by the chicken stock (or broth). Cover the pot with the lid slightly askew, and simmer gently for approximately 12 minutes.
- After 12 minutes, add the rinsed navy beans and stir to combine. Let the soup continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove the soup from heat and stir in the chopped kale, allowing it to wilt into the hot broth. Add the parsley and a small squeeze of lemon to enhance the flavor with a subtle brightness.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with bread, if desired.
