When I first made this Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup Recipe, I knew it was a keeper. My kitchen filled with the warmest, coziest aromas, and with each spoonful, I felt like I’d found my new favorite comfort food.
It’s hearty, nourishing, and perfect for those cold nights when you want something wholesome yet deeply satisfying. What I love most is how easily it comes together and how adaptable it is based on what you’ve got on hand. Trust me, you’ll be ladling seconds!
Ingredients That Make This Soup Shine
Here’s everything you need to whip up this soul-soothing soup. I’ve added quick tips along the way to make your experience even better.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a fragrant start to your soup.
- 12 ounces sausage (your favorite variety): Smoky or sweet works well here.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a sweet depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that irresistible aroma.
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into small florets: Tender and slightly nutty.
- 4 cups kale, chopped: Use fresh kale for the best texture; skip frozen.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Choose a good-quality broth for maximum flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Enhances all the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional): For a little kick of heat.
Note: This recipe makes about 6 servings. Adjust quantities depending on your needs!
Variations to Make It Your Own
This recipe is easily customizable to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:
- Dairy-Free: Swap chicken broth with vegetable or coconut-based broth for a creamy yet lighter option.
- Low-Carb: Use turkey sausage for a leaner protein option.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice, crispy bacon crumbles, or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra richness.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long it’ll take from chopping to enjoying your first spoonful!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
You don’t need much to make this soup, but these items will make it a breeze:
- Large Pot: To bring all the flavors together in one spot.
- Sharp Knife: To chop veggies and slice sausage easily.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy base for your prep work.
- Ladle: Perfect for serving those hearty bowls of soup.
How to Make Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup?
Making this soup is as comforting as eating it. Just follow the steps below for a warm, delicious bowl!
Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them until they soften up, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Brown the Sausage
Add sliced sausage to the pot, stirring occasionally. The sausage will brown beautifully and infuse the base with that signature smoky savoriness we love.
Add the Vegetables
Toss cauliflower florets and kale into the pot. Stir well to coat the veggies in those savory juices. This step begins to build layers of flavor in your soup.
Pour in the Broth
Now, pour in the chicken broth, making sure it covers all the veggies. Season with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes if you want some heat. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
Simmer and Serve
Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the cauliflower turns tender and the kale wilts to perfection. Ladle into bowls, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra touch.
Tips for Making the Best Soup
After making this recipe so many times, I’ve learned a few tricks to elevate it even further.
- Pick high-quality sausage for the most flavor impact.
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower; it should stay soft but not mushy.
- Add ingredients like chili flakes or heavy cream to taste for extra layers of flavor.
How to Serve Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup?
Take this comfort food up a notch with some simple serving ideas:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or a dollop of crème fraîche.
- Pair it with crusty bread to soak up every drop of goodness.
- For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp mixed greens salad.
Nutritional Information
Want to know what’s in your bowl? Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 14g
Make Ahead and Storage
This soup gets even more flavorful as it sits, so it’s perfect for making ahead! Here’s how to store it properly.
Refrigerating: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Divide into individual portions and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to evenly distribute the heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this soup is destined to win over your heart (and tastebuds):
- Quick and Effortless: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and one-pot cleanup.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals for a balanced meal.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your mood or dietary needs.
- Rich Layers of Flavor: Smoky, savory, and hearty with every single bite.
- Meal-Prep Superstar: Freezes like a dream and reheats beautifully for future meals.
Hearty, healthy, and endlessly adaptable, this cauliflower sausage kale soup has all the makings of a recipe you’ll cherish for years to come. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to!
Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces sausage your favorite variety
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium head of cauliflower cut into small florets
- 4 cups kale chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes optional
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Brown the Sausage: Add the sliced sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in cauliflower florets and kale, coating them in the savory sausage drippings.
- Pour in the Broth: Add chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer and Serve: Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and the kale is wilted. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use vegetable or coconut-based broth for a lighter, dairy-free option.
- Low-Carb Option: Opt for turkey sausage for a leaner protein.
- Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice, crispy bacon crumbles, or Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
