Sausage Soup

This sausage soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days and cozy gatherings. Packed with beef smoked sausage, creamy white beans, tender potatoes, and nutrient-rich kale, this hearty dish will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying a bowl solo on a cold evening, this soup stands out for its robust flavors and satisfying ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This sausage soup is loaded with protein and fiber, making it a complete meal that keeps you full longer.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in just over an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables or add your favorite spices; this recipe is adaptable to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—this soup tastes even better the next day!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings or family dinners, this hearty dish will impress guests with its rich flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create this fantastic sausage soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Garlic press
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and can hold all the ingredients without overflowing.
• Garlic press: This tool simplifies the process of mincing garlic, releasing its flavor quickly into your dish.

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
• 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 Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Tiny squeeze of lemon (about 1/2 teaspoon)

How to Make Sausage Soup

Step 1: Gather 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 Onions and Spices

Next, add the diced onion to the pot along with Italian seasoning, 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 and Broth

Add in the diced potatoes, stirring to combine followed by adding chicken stock or broth. Cover the pot with the lid askew and allow it to simmer gently for about 12 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Beans

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

Step 6: Finish with Kale

Turn off the heat and stir in roughly chopped kale. Allow 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 your delicious creation!

How to Serve Sausage Soup

Sausage soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a quick meal, there are plenty of serving ideas to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm baguette pairs beautifully with sausage soup, perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: The rich flavors of garlic bread complement the savory notes of the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Shredded Parmesan: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor and richness to each bowl.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheddar on top gives a creamy texture that makes the soup even more comforting.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A touch of fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds color.
• Crumbled Bacon: For an extra crunch, add crispy bacon bits to the top of your soup.

How to Perfect Sausage Soup

To make the best sausage soup, consider these helpful tips for achieving rich flavors and perfect textures.

• Use Quality Sausage: Choose high-quality beef smoked sausage for the best taste. It enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onions and sausage. This step builds depth of flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer slowly. This helps all ingredients meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Add Lemon at the End: A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens up the flavors without making it too sour.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Soup

Pairing side dishes with sausage soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad provides a crunchy contrast to the warm soup.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of sausage soup wonderfully.
3. Stuffed Peppers: These flavorful peppers can serve as a hearty side that matches well with the soup’s richness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add another layer of flavor and nutrition to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a fun dipping option alongside the soup.
6. Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf can absorb some of the broth while adding great texture to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sausage soup can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder the final result. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Failing to prepare all ingredients beforehand can lead to confusion and overcooking. Take time to dice, chop, and measure everything before starting.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning throughout the cooking process may leave your soup bland. Season at different stages, especially when sautéing vegetables and adding broth.
• Overcooking the kale: Cooking kale for too long can make it mushy. Add it at the end of the cooking process to keep its vibrant color and texture.
• Using low-quality sausage: The type of sausage you choose greatly impacts flavor. Opt for high-quality beef smoked sausage for the best taste.
• Not adjusting liquid levels: Sometimes, you may need more or less broth depending on your desired consistency. If you want a thicker soup, reduce the liquid; for a thinner version, add more broth.
• Ignoring storage instructions: Improperly stored soup can spoil quickly. Make sure to follow proper storage guidelines to keep your sausage soup fresh.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Sausage Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Sausage Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through; this method helps maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of sausage in this sausage soup?

Yes! You can experiment with various sausages such as Italian or turkey sausage for different flavors.

How do I customize this sausage soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery, or switch out beans based on your preference.

Is this sausage soup gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free chicken stock and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, this recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

How do I make this a vegetarian option?

You can replace the beef smoked sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Final Thoughts

This sausage soup is not only rich and cozy but also incredibly versatile. It allows room for customization based on your favorite ingredients or dietary needs. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or looking for a soothing meal option, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors!

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Hearty Sausage Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Warm up on chilly days with this delicious sausage soup, packed with flavorful beef smoked sausage, creamy white beans, tender potatoes, and nutritious kale. This comforting dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup will satisfy your cravings and keep you warm from the inside out.

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Ingredients

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• 1 (14 ounce) package beef smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 small russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken stock or broth
• 2 (15 ounce) cans organic navy beans, drained
• 2 cups fresh kale, roughly chopped
• Italian seasoning, black pepper, and ground white pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, sear the sliced beef smoked sausage until browned.
2. Add diced onion and spices; sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Incorporate diced potatoes and chicken stock; cover and simmer for about 12 minutes.
4. Add navy beans and simmer for another 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
5. Turn off the heat and stir in chopped kale until wilted. Finish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
6. Serve hot with your choice of bread or toppings like cheese or herbs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 40mg