This Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Packed with hearty ingredients like beef smoked sausage, potatoes, white beans, and kale, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to enjoy on any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or planning a cozy dinner party, this soup will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and Filling: With beef smoked sausage and nutritious vegetables, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger.
- Flavorful Medley: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand; this soup adapts well.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start making your sausage soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Garlic press
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: A spacious pot is crucial for simmering the soup evenly without overflow.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and ensures your workspace stays organized.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife speeds up prep time while ensuring clean cuts for even cooking.
- Garlic press: Quickly minces garlic, releasing its flavor efficiently into the 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
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 Fresh Finish
- 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 Aromatics
Next, add the diced onion to the pot along with 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: Add Potatoes and Stock
Add in the diced potatoes and stir to combine followed by chicken stock (or broth). Cover the pot with the lid askew, allowing 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: Finish with Greens
Turn off the heat and stir in the roughly chopped kale. Allow it to wilt into the hot soup; add in parsley as well plus a tiny squeeze of lemon to add 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 both the body and soul. It pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, making your meal even more enjoyable.
With Crusty Bread
- A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, enhancing the flavors of the sausage soup.
Topped with Parmesan Cheese
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top to add a nutty flavor that complements the soup’s ingredients beautifully.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness to each bowl.
With a Side Salad
- A light side salad made with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup, balancing your meal.
Accompanied by Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- Pairing this soup with gooey grilled cheese sandwiches creates a comforting combination that’s great for chilly days.
How to Perfect Sausage Soup
Making delicious sausage soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Choose Quality Sausage: Use high-quality beef smoked sausage for the best flavor and texture in your soup.
- Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Allowing the onions and garlic to sauté until golden will enhance their sweetness and depth.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving; you may want to add more spices or salt depending on your preference.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.
- Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken stock for superior flavor compared to store-bought options.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Soup
Sausage soup can be complemented with several side dishes that enhance its heartiness. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: This classic side provides a flavorful crunch that’s perfect for scooping up every last drop of soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrients, balancing out the meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers a healthy grain alternative that pairs well with the richness of sausage soup.
- Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread is an excellent choice that adds warmth and comfort to your dining experience.
- Stuffed Peppers: These can be made ahead of time and provide another filling option alongside your savory soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying addition that complements the soup’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your sausage soup to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Searing: Failing to sear the sausage first can lead to a bland soup. Browning adds depth and flavor, so take the time to do it right.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Adding kale too early can make it mushy. Stir it in at the end to keep its vibrant color and texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting as you cook is essential. Adjust spices and seasonings at different stages for a balanced flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor broth can ruin your soup’s taste. Opt for high-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for better results.
- Not Chopping Ingredients Evenly: Unevenly chopped vegetables can cook at different rates. Ensure uniform sizes for consistent cooking times.
- Skipping Lemon Juice: Neglecting the squeeze of lemon at the end can result in a flat flavor profile. This small addition brightens up the dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sausage soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sausage Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sausage Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until hot, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about sausage soup that may help you enhance your cooking experience.
What type of sausage is best for sausage soup?
Beef smoked sausage works wonderfully in this recipe, but you can also use turkey or chicken variants for a lighter option.
Can I add other vegetables to my sausage soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to include carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
How do I make sausage soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick that complements the savory flavors.
How long does sausage soup last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator before needing to be discarded.
Final Thoughts
This hearty sausage soup is not just filling but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. Perfect for cozy nights, this comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Sausage Soup
Savor the warmth of this hearty Sausage Soup, a delightful blend of beef smoked sausage, tender potatoes, white beans, and nutritious kale. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this dish combines rich flavors and textures in one comforting bowl. Easy to prepare and adaptable, it makes an excellent choice for quick weeknight meals or cozy dinner parties. Enjoy the satisfying combination of protein and vegetables that not only fills the belly but also warms the soul.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
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 of 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)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the onion and potatoes, pressing garlic, and slicing the sausage.
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, sear the beef smoked sausage until browned.
- Add diced onion, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and white pepper; sauté until onion is golden.
- Stir in pressed garlic before adding diced potatoes and chicken stock; cover and simmer for 12 minutes.
- Incorporate rinsed navy beans; simmer for an additional 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Turn off heat and stir in chopped kale until wilted; finish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg