Are you craving a hearty, delicious soup that combines the smoky richness of kielbasa with the nutritious punch of kale? Look no further! This Kielbasa Sausage and Kale Soup is about to become your new favorite winter comfort food. Imagine a steaming bowl packed with tender potatoes, savory sausage, and nutrient-dense kale that will not only satisfy your hunger but also tantalize your taste buds with every spoonful. In just 40 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that will have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 bunch kale, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping kale, slicing kielbasa into half-moon shapes, dicing potatoes, and finely mincing garlic and onion.
- Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned, releasing its natural oils and enhancing flavor.
- Remove kielbasa and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in chicken broth and add diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are almost tender.
- Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chopped kale and browned kielbasa back into the pot.
- Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until kale is wilted and tender, and potatoes are completely cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley or crusty bread on the side.
Tips
- Choose high-quality kielbasa for maximum flavor - the smoky sausage is the star of this soup!
- Don't rush the sautéing process - browning the kielbasa and properly caramelizing the onions builds deep, complex flavors.
- Add kale towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and prevent overcooking.
- For extra richness, you can substitute half the chicken broth with heavy cream or add a splash of white wine when sautéing onions.
- This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers to soak up the delicious broth.
- For a lighter version, use turkey kielbasa and low-sodium chicken broth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 416kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg