Hearty Kale and Italian Sausage Soup

Recipes
Hearty Kale and Italian Sausage Soup

Hearty Kale and Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate warming comfort food for a crisp fall evening. With protein-rich sausage, savory bacon, and fiber-packed kale, it’s deeply nourishing. But rather than feeling heavy, my recipe is satiating and healthy. 

Healthy and Hearty Soup for the Win

What makes this soup such a winner is how it naturally balances flavor and nutrition. 

  • Sausage and bacon are our protein and fat. Clean protein and healthy fat keep you full while supporting steady energy and lean muscle mass (necessary for a robust metabolism!). 
  • Kale is our greens of choice, delivering essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to boost immunity and micronutrient status. Kale is a hearty green that holds up particularly well in soups and stews.
  • Potatoes add fiber and complex carbohydrates, giving your body sustained energy without a blood sugar spike.
  • Rich, collagen-supporting chicken bone broth adds even more protein while supporting joint health.

Together, these Fab Four ingredients combine for a hearty soup that is both functional and cozy.

A Flexible Soup Recipe To Make It Easy

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is for busy weeks and differing palates: 

  1. Make it ahead of time and enjoy it for dinner, pack it for lunch, or freeze portions for later. 
  2. Use up leftover vegetables like kale, potatoes, or even carrots to make this soup both budget-conscious and food waste-friendly. 
  3. Swap out ingredients to what you prefer: turkey or chicken sausage for breakfast sausage, collard greens for kale, beef broth for chicken broth. Add as many veggies as you wish!
  4. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon just before serving adds a bright pop of flavor, and a crumble of crispy bacon on top brings the ultimate comfort factor.

Comfort Food That Cuts Cravings & Balances Blood Sugar

Protein, fiber, healthy fats, and greens are the Fab Four pillars that combine to keep you feeling full, satisfied, and energized. Rather than a heavy carb bomb, this body-loving recipe is health-forward and deeply nourishing. The warm, savory flavors of this soup make it feel indulgent, but the whole family can enjoy it guilt-free!

Want to see my Kale and Sausage Soup in action? Watch me make it here on Instagram!

Hungry for More Healthy Soups? I’ve got plenty more!

  • Prep Time

    10 minutes

  • Total Time

    45

  • Servings

    6-8

  • Freezer Friendly

    Yes

Ingredients

  • 5 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 lb breakfast sausage (no casing)
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup red or white potatoes, diced into cubes
  • 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (I love Thrive Market brand)
  • 6 cups chicken bone broth (I love FOND - use code BEWELLBYKELLY)

Directions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add the sausage to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  3. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the diced potatoes and Italian seasoning, letting them cook for 2-3 minutes to coat with the flavors.
  5. Pour in the chicken bone broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
  6. Stir in the chopped kale and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the kale is wilted and tender.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with the crispy bacon you set aside earlier.