Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s filled with hearty ingredients. Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth to your heart and home. This delightful recipe combines savory sausage, crispy bacon, and vibrant kale, all enveloped in a creamy broth that will leave you feeling satisfied.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table for hearty meals that brought us together. One of my favorites was a rich and creamy soup that my grandmother would make on chilly evenings. She taught me the importance of using fresh ingredients and the joy of cooking for loved ones. Now, I carry on that tradition with this Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup, a recipe that is not only delicious but also a nod to those cherished memories.
What Makes This Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup Recipe Special?
This soup stands out because of its unique combination of flavors and textures. The richness of the cream melds beautifully with the savory sausage and crispy bacon, while the kale adds a pop of color and a nutritional boost. Plus, the creamy base is made even heartier with the addition of cauliflower, making this soup both comforting and nutritious. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.
The Full Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup half and half
- 4 cups chopped curly kale
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and bacon. Cook until the sausage is browned and the bacon is crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks for even browning. Transfer the cooked meat to a plate using a slotted spoon. Drain excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.
- Add the diced onions to the pot and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release the garlic’s aroma.
- Add the cauliflower florets and chicken broth to the pot. Season with kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
- Once the cauliflower is tender, puree the soup until smooth using a high-powered blender or an immersion blender. This step creates a creamy base that will hold all the flavors together. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
- Return the pureed soup to the pot, then stir in the half and half and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked sausage, bacon, and chopped kale. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the kale is wilted. Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
- Serve the soup hot, with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top for added flavor, if desired.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup
This Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. If you’re looking for variations, consider adding other vegetables such as carrots or potatoes for extra heartiness. For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage or turkey bacon instead of pork. You could also add some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a delightful umami boost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I substitute for half and half?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk, but the soup may not be as creamy.
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Enjoy a comforting bowl of this creamy soup, packed with hearty ingredients like sausage, kale, and cauliflower!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 320
- Servings: 6
Creamy Sausage and Kale Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven A heavy pot suitable for cooking soups.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup half and half
- 4 cups curly kale, chopped
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and bacon. Cook until the sausage is browned and the bacon is crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a plate using a slotted spoon and drain excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.
- Add the diced onions and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Add the cauliflower and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
- Puree the soup until smooth using a high-powered blender or an immersion blender.
- Add half and half and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cooked sausage, bacon, and kale. Simmer until the kale is wilted, about 5 minutes. Adjust salt to taste.
- Serve the soup with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.