Sausage Soup

This sausage soup is the perfect dish for cozy nights in or family gatherings. Packed with flavor and a variety of hearty ingredients, it’s sure to warm your soul. The combination of beef smoked sausage, tender potatoes, creamy white beans, and vibrant kale creates a delightful balance of taste and nutrition. Plus, this recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This sausage soup is loaded with ingredients that keep you satisfied and full.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this warm meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The smoked beef sausage adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Nutrient-Rich: Kale and white beans provide essential vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served alongside crusty bread for dipping.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious sausage soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Garlic press
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for simmering the ingredients together evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space to chop your vegetables efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and clean cuts on all ingredients.
• Garlic press: Makes it easy to add fresh garlic quickly without any hassle.

Ingredients

This sausage soup is rich and cozy, brimming with hearty ingredients such as beef smoked sausage, diced potatoes, white beans, and kale!

For the Soup Base

• 1 (14 ounce) package of beef smoked sausage, sliced into bite-size circles
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Pinch or two black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press

For the Hearty Components

• 3 small russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1/2” cubes)
• 6 cups chicken stock or broth
• 2 (15 ounce) cans organic navy beans, drained and rinsed well

For the Finishing Touches

• 2 cups roughly chopped kale
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Tiny squeeze of lemon (about 1/2 teaspoon)

How to Make Sausage Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering and prepping all of your ingredients according to the list above to have them organized and ready for use.

Step 2: Sear the Sausage

To prepare the soup, place a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the slices of beef smoked sausage (you won’t need added oil as the sausage will release its own fat). Sear the slices for a few minutes until fairly browned, flipping them as needed.

Step 3: Add Onions and Seasonings

Next, add the diced onion to the pot along with the Italian seasoning, a couple of good pinches of black pepper, and white pepper. Sauté with the sausage until softened and golden; then stir in the garlic and sauté just until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Potatoes and Broth

Add in the diced potatoes and stir to combine. Follow this by pouring in the chicken stock (or broth). Cover the pot with the lid askew, allowing the soup to simmer gently for about 12 minutes.

Step 5: Add Beans

After 12 minutes, add in the navy beans. Stir to combine and allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes more or just until the diced potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Finish with Kale

Turn off the heat. Stir in the roughly chopped kale allowing it to wilt into the hot soup; add in parsley as well plus a tiny squeeze of lemon for an ever-so-slight bright note.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the sausage soup into bowls and serve with bread if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Soup

Sausage soup is a hearty dish that warms the soul, making it perfect for cold days. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Sourdough bread: The tangy flavor complements the richness of the soup.
• Garlic bread: Adds a savory touch and is perfect for dipping.
• Crusty baguette: Great for scooping up every last bit of soup.

Add a Side Salad

• Garden salad: A light mix of greens and vegetables balances the richness.
• Caesar salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the meaty flavors of the soup.
• Kale salad: A nod to the kale in the soup, providing extra crunch and nutrition.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor when sprinkled on top.
• Shredded cheddar: Melts beautifully into the warm soup for added creaminess.
• Crumbled feta: Provides a tangy contrast to the hearty ingredients.

How to Perfect Sausage Soup

Perfecting your sausage soup can enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to make it even better.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce and herbs will enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances the flavors, so don’t rush this step!
• Experiment with greens: Try different leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard for variety in texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Soup

Complementing sausage soup with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots served warm, perfect for soaking up broth.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add color and nutrients.
3. Cornbread – A sweet addition that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Fill them with quinoa or rice for a nutritious side that pairs nicely.
5. Potato Wedges – Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they make for a satisfying crunch.
6. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice cooked with herbs adds another layer of flavor without overwhelming the meal.
7. Coleslaw – A refreshing crunchy slaw can provide a nice textural contrast to the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your sausage soup from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong type of sausage: Selecting a lower quality sausage can affect the flavor. Opt for beef smoked sausage for a rich taste.
• Neglecting to sauté vegetables: Skipping the step of sautéing onions and garlic can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté them until golden for depth of flavor.
• Not adding enough liquid: Insufficient broth can make the soup too thick. Stick to the recommended amount of chicken stock for the right consistency.
• Forgetting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. You might need extra salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavors.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking potatoes too long can make them mushy. Check for tenderness after simmering as directed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Sausage Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Sausage Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring regularly until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about sausage soup that might help you enjoy this dish even more.

What is Sausage Soup?

Sausage soup is a hearty dish made with flavorful sausage, vegetables, and broth, offering a comforting meal perfect for any season.

Can I use different sausages in this Sausage Soup?

Yes! While beef smoked sausage is used here, you can experiment with turkey or chicken sausages for variations.

How do I customize my Sausage Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. You can also change the greens based on what you have available.

Is this Sausage Soup gluten-free?

Yes! As long as the broth and beans are certified gluten-free, this recipe is suitable for gluten-free diets.

How do I thicken my Sausage Soup?

If you prefer a thicker texture, consider adding a cornstarch slurry or pureeing a portion of the soup and mixing it back in.

Final Thoughts

This sausage soup is not just warm and comforting; it’s also versatile and easy to customize based on your tastes. With hearty ingredients and bold flavors, it’s perfect for any dinner table. Try adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours!