Sausage Soup

This Sausage Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, cozy gatherings, or as a comforting meal after a long day. The combination of beef smoked sausage, tender potatoes, hearty beans, and vibrant kale makes this soup not only filling but also nutritious. With its inviting aroma and rich taste, this dish stands out in any culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just over an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber from the sausage and beans, this dish satisfies even the hungriest appetites.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that adults and kids alike will enjoy; it’s great for the whole family.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your sausage soup, gather some essential tools to make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Garlic press
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Garlic press: Quickly minces garlic, saving time and ensuring you get that rich flavor into your dish without fuss.

Ingredients

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

Main Ingredients

• 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
• 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
• 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 ingredients list above to have 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: Sauté Vegetables

Next, add the diced onion to the pot along with the Italian seasoning. Season with black pepper and white pepper. Sauté with the sausage until softened and golden. Stir in the garlic and sauté just until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Potatoes

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

Step 5: Incorporate 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: Add Kale

Turn off the heat and stir in roughly chopped kale. Allow it to wilt into the hot soup. Add in parsley plus a tiny squeeze of lemon for a slight “bright” note.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the sausage soup into bowls. Serve with bread if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!

How to Serve Sausage Soup

Sausage soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your sausage soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or sourdough works perfectly. Dip it into the soup for added texture and flavor.

Topped with Parmesan

• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sausage and kale beautifully.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh parsley or cilantro as a garnish brightens the dish and enhances its visual appeal.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the sausage soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation.

Paired with Wine

• A glass of white wine or light red complements the flavors of sausage soup. Choose something fruity to balance the spices.

How to Perfect Sausage Soup

To make your sausage soup even better, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Quality Sausage: Choose high-quality beef smoked sausage for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Allow the onions and garlic to caramelize slightly; this adds depth to your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for balance.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps deepen the flavors.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Soup

Pairing side dishes with sausage soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad pairs well with sausage soup’s richness while adding a crisp texture.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional flavor and nutrients alongside your hearty bowl of soup.
4. Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread is an excellent complement that balances the savory notes of the soup.
5. Cheese Quesadillas: Quick and easy, cheesy quesadillas add a fun twist and are perfect for dipping into your soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These flavorful stuffed peppers offer a filling side that pairs wonderfully with sausage flavors.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges create a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft textures of the soup.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve this creamy dip alongside tortilla chips as an appetizer before enjoying your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sausage soup can be easy, but there are some common mistakes you should avoid to ensure the best flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Vegetables like potatoes and kale can become mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on the simmering time for perfect texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland soup. Don’t forget to taste as you go and adjust spices as necessary.
• Not using enough liquid: Sausage soup needs enough broth to be hearty. Make sure you follow the recipe’s liquid measurements for the best results.
• Using low-quality sausage: The sausage is a star ingredient in this dish. Choose a good quality beef smoked sausage for better flavor.
• Ignoring the resting time: Letting the soup sit after cooking allows flavors to meld. Don’t rush to serve it right away!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sausage soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sausage Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sausage Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making sausage soup that might help you.

What type of sausage works best in sausage soup?

A good quality beef smoked sausage is ideal for this sausage soup, but feel free to try other types like Italian or chicken sausage based on your preference.

Can I add other vegetables to my sausage soup?

Absolutely! You can customize your sausage soup by adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make my sausage soup thicker?

To thicken your sausage soup, you can mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry during cooking. This will give it a heartier texture.

How long does homemade sausage soup last in the fridge?

Homemade sausage soup typically lasts 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze leftover sausage soup?

Yes! Leftover sausage soup freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.

Final Thoughts

This delicious sausage soup is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile enough for various dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy dinners any time of year!

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Sausage Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up with our delightful Sausage Soup, a perfect blend of hearty flavors that will comfort and satisfy. This nourishing soup features savory beef smoked sausage, tender potatoes, creamy navy beans, and vibrant kale, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its rich aroma and delicious taste, this dish is not only filling but also nutritious. Ready in just over an hour, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Customize it with your favorite vegetables for a personal touch!

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients by chopping and measuring as listed.
2. In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, sear the sliced sausage until browned.
3. Add diced onion and Italian seasoning; sauté until softened. Stir in garlic.
4. Incorporate diced potatoes and chicken broth; cover and simmer for 12 minutes.
5. Add navy beans and simmer for another 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in chopped kale, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice off the heat.
7. Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (360g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 50mg