Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smokey Sausage, Kale & Sweet Potato Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich, savory depth of smoked sausage and the earthy bite of kale. Perfect for chilly evenings, this comforting soup is packed with nutrients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

ingredients

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

smoked sausagesweet potatokaleoniongarlicchicken brotholive oilsaltblack pepperpaprikaoptional: red pepper flakes for heat

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Stir in cubed sweet potatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes.

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until sweet potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Add chopped kale and cooked sausage back into the pot. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until kale is wilted.

Taste and adjust seasonings. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

Serve hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier broth.

Stir in canned white beans for added protein and heartiness.

Swap kale with spinach or Swiss chard based on preference.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use raw sausage instead of smoked?

Yes, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.

Can I peel the sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, peeled and cubed sweet potatoes can be stored in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Can I use water instead of chicken broth?

Yes, but you may want to increase the seasonings for flavor.

Is this soup spicy?

It’s not inherently spicy, but you can adjust heat with red pepper flakes.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the sausage first, then combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I prevent kale from getting too soft?

Add kale at the end of cooking and simmer briefly just until wilted.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.

Can I add noodles or rice?

Yes, but add cooked noodles or rice at the end to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

Smokey Sausage, Kale & Sweet Potato Soup is a satisfying, wholesome meal that blends savory, sweet, and earthy flavors into one comforting bowl. With its rich texture and nourishing ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe for warmth and simplicity—perfect for feeding the family or enjoying cozy leftovers all week long.