Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smokey Sausage, Kale & Sweet Potato Soup is a hearty and comforting dish packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. The smokiness of the sausage infuses the broth, while tender sweet potatoes and vibrant kale create a nutritious, colorful meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This one-pot wonder is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

smoked sausagesweet potatokaleoniongarlicchicken brotholive oilpaprika (smoked or regular)thyme (fresh or dried)red pepper flakes (optional)salt and pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Slice the smoked sausage and sauté until browned on both sides.

Remove the sausage and set aside.

In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in diced sweet potatoes and sprinkle with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Bring to a simmer and cook until the sweet potatoes are just tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Add chopped kale and the browned sausage back into the pot.

Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.

Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Use spicy sausage for an extra kick.

Add a can of drained white beans for added protein and texture.

Substitute spinach for kale if you prefer a softer green.

Use vegetable broth to make it pescatarian-friendly.

Add a splash of cream for a richer, creamier soup.

storage/reheating

Store Smokey Sausage, Kale & Sweet Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage works great and keeps the soup a bit lighter.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Is this soup spicy?

It can be mildly spicy if you add red pepper flakes; adjust to your preference.

Can I use frozen kale?

Yes, just thaw and drain well before adding it to the soup.

Can I leave out the sausage?

You can, but the sausage adds a lot of flavor; consider adding smoked paprika for extra smokiness if omitting.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.

Do sweet potatoes need to be peeled?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer more fiber.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers would be great additions.

What type of sausage is best?

Fully cooked smoked sausage, like kielbasa, works best.

Can I make it thicker?

Mash a few sweet potatoes in the pot for a thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Smokey Sausage, Kale & Sweet Potato Soup is a robust, flavorful dish that’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. With its smoky, savory broth and nutrient-packed ingredients, this soup is sure to become a comforting favorite you’ll return to again and again.