As I stirred the pot, a familiar aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy evenings spent sharing meals with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share my Cozy Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup—a dish that effortlessly blends savory Italian sausage and crispy bacon with tender potatoes and vibrant kale. This one-pot meal not only promises to keep you warm and satisfied but is also incredibly simple to prepare in a slow cooker. Just imagine returning home to the inviting scent of homemade comfort food, ready to be enjoyed with minimal effort. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time throughout the week. Are you ready to embrace this delicious warmth? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting at its core, this soup is the ultimate cozy meal for chilly nights. Effortless preparation means it’s perfect for busy schedules—just set your crockpot and go! Flavor-packed, the combination of savory Italian sausage and crispy bacon infuses every spoonful with richness. Versatile enough, you can easily customize it by swapping kale for spinach or adding your favorite veggies. Crowd-pleasing, it’s a dish your whole family will love! Serve it with some crusty bread or alongside a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying dinner. Most importantly, the leftovers taste even better the next day—try enjoying them with Green Olive Soup for a delightful meal combo!
Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for this cozy dish!
For the Soup Base
- Italian Sausage – Adds savory depth and richness; substitute with regular pork sausage and add Italian seasoning for flavor.
- Bacon – Provides smokiness and crisp texture; use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Onion – Enhances overall flavor; shallots can be used as a milder alternative.
- Garlic – Boosts flavor complexity; freshly minced garlic is preferred for its bright taste.
- Potatoes – Provides heartiness and texture; choose waxy potatoes for better shape retention.
- Chicken Broth – Serves as the soup base; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Seasoning
- Oregano – Contributes herbal notes; substitute with Italian seasoning or thyme.
- Pepper – Adds mild heat and seasoning; adjust to taste; black pepper can also be used.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Offers subtle spice; omit for a milder version.
For the Veggies
- Kale – Adds nutrition and color; spinach can be used if kale isn’t available.
For the Creamy Finish
- Cream – Provides a rich, creamy finish; use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version; make sure it’s at room temperature to avoid curdling.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a comforting bowl of Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup
Step 1: Prep the Meats
Begin by cutting the Italian sausage into bite-sized pieces and slicing the bacon. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once crispy, remove the bacon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
Step 2: Brown Sausage
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the sausage pieces and brown them until they are beautifully caramelized, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Stir them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Once browned, add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until the onions are translucent and softened, around 3 to 4 minutes, mixing well.
Step 3: Prepare Vegetables
While the meats are cooking, take this time to prepare the vegetables. Cube the potatoes into 1-inch chunks for even cooking and mince the garlic. Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing the tough stems. These vibrant vegetables will enhance the hearty flavors of your Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the delicious meat mixture from the skillet into the crockpot. Add the minced garlic, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, along with the chicken broth and cubed potatoes. Stir all the ingredients together gently, ensuring that the spices and meats are well distributed throughout, creating a rich base for your soup.
Step 5: Cook
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on High for 3.5 hours or Low for 7 hours. Check for doneness by ensuring that the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The longer cooking time on Low allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that irresistible comfort food essence you crave.
Step 6: Finish
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully stir in the chopped kale. Gradually add the cream while stirring to keep it evenly mixed. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook on High for an additional 15 minutes or Low for 25 minutes, until the kale is tender and the cream is heated through, creating a luscious and creamy finish to your soup.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup
• Kale Timing: Always add kale in the last 15-25 minutes of cooking to retain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
• Potato Size: Cut potatoes into 1-inch chunks to ensure even cooking and prevent them from becoming mushy in your soup.
• Searing Benefits: Browning sausage and bacon before adding them to the crockpot enhances the overall flavor profile of your Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup.
• Cream Caution: Use room temperature cream to avoid curdling when mixing it into the hot soup; this ensures a silky smooth texture.
• Mix-Up Spices: Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference, or omit for a milder dish if the kids are dining too!
Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with your soup and make it your own—these variations will delight your taste buds!
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Lean Option: Substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter yet equally delicious version. This swap offers a wonderful alternative without sacrificing flavor.
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Greens Galore: Use spinach or Swiss chard in place of kale for a different touch. Each offers a unique flavor, adding to the soup’s delightful complexity.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini during cooking for added nutrition and a pop of color. This twist makes the soup even heartier!
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for a custom touch that can warm you right up.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream with coconut milk or a nut-based cream to achieve a creamy finish without dairy. This creates a new flavor profile that’s both delicious and satisfying.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of oregano for an aromatic twist. Fresh herbs can elevate the whole experience, enhancing your cozy dinner.
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Broth Swap: Go for a rich homemade bone broth instead of chicken broth for deeper flavors. The added nutrients will reinforce this comfort food classic.
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Sustenance Side: Serve alongside crusty bread or a salad with a light vinaigrette, just as you would with Lemon Chicken Soup or Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Bake for a complete meal.
These ideas are sure to inspire you to adapt and enjoy this soup your way!
Storage Tips for Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Flavors often improve the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option.
Freezer: Freeze soup without cream in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, add the cream during reheating for a rich finish.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Avoiding Curdling: If reheating a previously refrigerated batch with cream, gently warm it to room temperature before adding it to the pot, preventing any curdling during the process.
What to Serve with Cozy Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup
Imagine a cozy dinner table surrounded by warmth and laughter, where each bite of your comforting soup is complemented by delightful sides.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, its crunchy crust and soft interior soak up the creamy broth beautifully, enhancing every spoonful. A rustic bread elevates this meal to the next level of comfort.
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Garlic Bread: The garlicky aroma pairs well with the rich soup flavors, providing a delightful crunch alongside the tender goodness of your meal. A simple yet indulgent treat that everyone loves!
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette cuts through the soup’s richness, adding bright notes of flavor and texture—an essential balance for a well-rounded meal.
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Cheesy Biscuit: Warm, cheesy biscuits add a savory touch, perfect for mopping up the last bits of your hearty soup. They bring a satisfying texture contrast that keeps everyone reaching for more!
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned, caramelized vegetables bring a touch of sweetness and earthy depth to your dinner table, complementing the flavors in your crockpot soup beautifully. They add a colorful visual appeal to the meal as well.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay offers crisp acidity and fruity notes that enhance the savory elements of the soup, making it an excellent pairing for your cozy night in.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal with a warm, sweet apple crisp for a delightful finish. Its comforting flavors and crumbly topping create a lovely contrast to the savory soup, leaving everyone satisfied and cozy.
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can chop the vegetables (potatoes, kale, and onion) and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, the sausage and bacon can be pre-cooked and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, ensuring all essential ingredients are ready to go. To maintain quality, avoid adding cream until just before serving; doing so will prevent curdling. When it’s time to enjoy your delicious soup, simply combine all prepped ingredients in the crockpot, add the stock, and cook as directed. You’ll savor the same warm, comforting flavors with hardly any effort!
Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of kale should I use?
Absolutely! Kale is a fantastic choice for this soup due to its texture and nutrition. I recommend using Tuscan kale, also known as Lacinato or Dinosaur kale, as it has a slightly sweeter flavor and holds up well during cooking. If you can’t find kale, feel free to substitute with fresh spinach or Swiss chard for a different twist.
How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
Very! You can store your leftover Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better after a day or so, allowing you to enjoy those rich tastes even more the next meal!
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes! To freeze, first omit the cream from the recipe and allow the soup to cool completely. Then, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat, adding cream only when it’s warm to avoid curdling.
Why is my soup too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than expected, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more chicken broth or even water, stirring it in gradually until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker soup, ensure you’re cutting your potatoes into smaller pieces, as well—it can help the soup thicken naturally by releasing starch as they cook.
Is this soup safe for dogs?
While the soup is packed with ingredients that are generally safe for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing it with your furry friends. Ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to dogs. It’s best to stick with plain cooked vegetables or chicken broth made specifically for pets if you want to share a taste of your culinary creations with them.
How can I adjust the spice level?
The more the merrier! To adjust the spice level in your Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup, you can simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder option. For a little extra depth without heat, try adding sweet bell peppers or carrots for a subtle sweetness that balances the rich flavors perfectly.
Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the Italian sausage into bite-sized pieces and slice the bacon. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add the sausage pieces and brown them for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in diced onion and cook until translucent, around 3 to 4 minutes.
- Cube the potatoes into 1-inch chunks and mince the garlic. Chop the kale, removing tough stems.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the crockpot. Add garlic, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on High for 3.5 hours or Low for 7 hours, until potatoes are tender. Check doneness with a fork.
- Stir in the kale and gradually add cream while mixing. Cover and cook on High for an additional 15 minutes or Low for 25 minutes until kale is tender and cream is hot.
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