Warm, bold, and bursting with flavor, this Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup is the ultimate paleo-friendly comfort food. With hearty Italian sausage, nutrient-rich kale, and a kick of red pepper, it’s a healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or anyone focusing on clean, wholesome eating. One spoonful and you’ll be hooked on its spicy, savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 6 oz spicy Italian sausage (paleo-friendly, casing removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
- 2 cups chicken broth (no added sugar)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the spicy Italian sausage to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the chopped kale to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the kale begins to wilt.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the crushed red pepper flakes. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the kale to become tender.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280
Protein (g): 14
Fat (g): 22
Carbohydrates (g): 7
Fiber (g): 2
Sugar (g): 2
Sodium (mg): 820
Storage Instructions
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some headspace in containers to allow for expansion.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow the soup to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring between each, until hot.
Modifications & Enhancements
To boost protein, consider adding diced cooked chicken or extra sausage. For more fiber and phytonutrients, stir in additional leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard in the final minutes of cooking. Cauliflower rice or chopped root vegetables like turnips or parsnips can add a satisfying texture and help keep the dish paleo while improving micronutrient diversity. You can also finish with a drizzle of coconut cream or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor depth and freshness.
