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There is something truly comforting about a bowl of hearty soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, and this Sweet Potato, Sausage & Kale Soup Recipe is exactly that kind of dish. Combining the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with the savory spice of Italian sausage and the earthy bite of kale, this soup is a vibrant, nourishing, and soul-satisfying meal. It’s a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Your kitchen will be filled with such inviting aromas, and you’ll love how each spoonful bursts with deliciousness and wholesome goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient — every item plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and creating an irresistible texture. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

2 Tbsp. olive oil: For sautéing the sausage and onions, adding a silky richness to the base.
1 pound spicy Italian chicken or turkey sausage, crumbled: The star protein that brings a punch of savory spice and depth.
1 large white onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation when cooked down.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Imparts a fragrant warmth that complements the sausage perfectly.
8 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that brings everything together in a comforting, light broth.
8 cups peeled and diced sweet potato (about 2 pounds): Offers a naturally sweet and creamy texture that balances out the spice.
1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes: Introduces a slight acidity and vibrant color to brighten the soup.
1 cup dried pasta (orecchiette preferred): Adds substance and bite, soaking up the delicious broth with every spoonful.
3 cups roughly-chopped kale: Brings a fresh, slightly bitter contrast and beautiful green hues for nutrition.
Salt and freshly-cracked black pepper: Essential to enhance and balance all the flavors.
Freshly-grated Parmesan cheese: An optional but irresistible garnish, lending a salty, nutty finish.

How to Make Sweet Potato, Sausage & Kale Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large stockpot until it’s shimmering with warmth. Add the diced onion and crumbled sausage to the pot and let them cook together for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll notice the onions turn translucent as they soften and the sausage begin to brown just ever so slightly, releasing that mouthwatering aroma. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Then toss in the minced garlic, cooking everything for another 1 to 2 minutes until that garlicky fragrance fills your kitchen. This step is crucial—it builds a rich, flavorful foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Simmer with Broth, Sweet Potatoes, and Tomatoes

Next, pour in the chicken broth along with the diced sweet potatoes and canned tomatoes. Stir everything gently to combine all those vibrant ingredients. Turn the heat up just enough to bring the soup to a gentle boil before reducing it to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, giving the sweet potatoes time to start softening and the flavors to marry beautifully.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Cook Until Tender

After the initial simmer, stir in the dried pasta. This soup works wonderfully with orecchiette, which has just the right shape to catch bits of sausage and broth, but any small pasta works well. Allow the soup to cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is perfectly al dente — tender but with a slight bite that adds a pleasant texture.

Step 4: Stir in Kale and Season

Once the pasta is ready, fold in the chopped kale. It will wilt beautifully into the hot soup, adding a vibrant sprinkle of green and a fresh, slightly earthy flavor. Taste your creation and season generously with freshly cracked black pepper and salt as needed. The kale and sweet potatoes balance the boldness of the sausage, but a final seasoning adjustment ensures every spoonful is just right.

How to Serve Sweet Potato, Sausage & Kale Soup Recipe

Garnishes

One of the best ways to elevate this soup is by topping each bowl with a generous amount of freshly-grated Parmesan cheese. The salty, nutty flavor of Parmesan melts into the soup’s warmth, enhancing every bite. You can also sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper for extra kick or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to add a luxurious finish. A few fresh kale leaves or a sprig of parsley can add a pop of color and freshness for presentation.

Side Dishes

This soup is a meal in itself but pairing it with a hearty side can truly complete your dining experience. Crusty artisan bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up that delicious broth. A simple mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast, balancing the heartiness with bright, fresh flavors. For a touch of indulgence, a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a light cheese plate will complement the sausage’s spice beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party or family meal, serve the soup in rustic bowls with thick rims to keep it warm longer. You might ladle it into hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bread bowls for a stunning autumnal presentation. Adding a swirl of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top can create a beautiful marbled effect and add creaminess. Another idea is to scatter toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped fresh herbs right before serving for an extra layer of texture and flavor surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sweet Potato, Sausage & Kale Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve all those fresh, hearty flavors. The soup might thicken upon standing, so give it a good stir and add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore the perfect consistency. This makes for a super convenient lunch or dinner option later in the week.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy days. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, or reheat from frozen with gentle simmering on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Reheating

To reheat your soup, the stovetop is your best friend, as it allows for even warming and easy stirring. Warm it slowly over medium heat until it’s hot throughout. If the soup seems too thick, add a little broth or water to loosen it up. For a quick fix, you can microwave individual servings in microwave-safe bowls, stirring halfway through. Either way, freshly-grated Parmesan added just before serving will revive the flavors beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage for this soup?

Absolutely! While spicy Italian chicken or turkey sausage is recommended for its bold flavor and leaner profile, you can use pork sausage or even a mild sausage if you prefer. Keep in mind that the spice level and fat content may affect the soup’s flavor and richness.

Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?

Yes! You can easily swap out traditional pasta for a gluten-free variety or even use small gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta or grain is tender.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, to make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Consider adding hearty vegetables like mushrooms or beans to keep it satisfying and packed with protein.

What’s the best way to prepare the kale for this soup?

Removing the tough stems and roughly chopping the leaves is key to ensuring the kale cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients. Adding it towards the end of cooking helps it retain some texture and vibrant color without becoming mushy.

How spicy is this soup?

The spiciness depends largely on the type of sausage you use. Spicy Italian sausage gives it a nice, warm heat, but if you prefer milder flavors, you can use a sweet sausage or adjust with less spicy seasoning. Adding crushed red pepper flakes when serving can also give you control over the heat level.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a soup that’s delicious, nourishing, and full of heart, you’ve got to try this Sweet Potato, Sausage & Kale Soup Recipe. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but flavorful enough to impress guests. The way the sweet potatoes and kale blend with the savory sausage and tender pasta is simply irresistible. I promise once you make this, you’ll keep coming back to it whenever you need a bowl of comfort and joy.