As the wind howls outside and the chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of steaming goodness to warm your soul. Welcome to my kitchen, where today I’m excited to share my Cozy Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup recipe—a true comfort food essential. With just a few minutes of prep, this one-pot meal transforms simple ingredients into a rich, hearty dish that practically cooks itself! The harmonious blend of savory Italian sausage, smoky bacon, and vibrant kale will not only satisfy your cravings but also fill your home with mouthwatering aromas. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or those long, busy days when you just want to come home to a delicious dinner. Curious how to create this delightful savory experience? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Soup Perfect for Cozy Days?

Hearty Comfort: Nothing says cozy like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day! This recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage, crisp bacon, and nutrient-rich kale to create a dish that’s not just filling, but also heartwarming.

Easy One-Pot Meal: You can relax and let your slow cooker do the work! Just a bit of prep and you’re set, making this a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.

Rich, Creamy Broth: The blend of creamy broth with tender potatoes provides a satisfying texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s like a hug in a bowl!

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to get creative! Switch out kale for spinach or use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes to customize this soup to your taste.

Time-Saving Delight: Letting the crockpot work its magic means you can spend more time enjoying the warmth of home. This soup is as efficient as it is delicious!

Pair this hearty dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for the perfect meal. If you’re looking for more comforting recipes, don’t miss out on Crockpot Thai Soup or Chinese Style Soup.

Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup Ingredients

For the Soup
• Italian Sausage – Main protein source that packs a flavorful punch; feel free to substitute with regular pork sausage and Italian seasoning if needed.
• Bacon – Adds a delightful smokiness and depth of flavor; turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter dish.
• Onion – Provides a sweet base; ensure it’s diced evenly for consistent cooking throughout the soup.
• Garlic – Essential for a robust flavor; freshly minced garlic works best—avoid pre-minced varieties for optimal taste.
• Oregano – Enhances the herbal notes in the soup; use fresh for a stronger flavor or dried if that’s what you have.
• Pepper – Imparts a mild spiciness; adjust to your preference for heat.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds just the right amount of kick; feel free to omit if you prefer a milder soup.
• Potatoes – Offers heartiness and texture; cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking to avoid mushiness.
• Chicken Broth – Acts as the flavorful base liquid; opt for quality brands or homemade for the best results.
• Kale – Adds color and nutritional density; introduce it in the last 15-25 minutes to keep it fresh and vibrant.
• Cream – Infuses the soup with luscious creaminess; ensure it’s at room temperature to prevent curdling during cooking.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the cozy embrace of this delicious Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by preparing your ingredients for the Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup. Slice the Italian sausage and bacon into bite-sized pieces, and then dice one onion and mince three cloves of garlic. Cube your potatoes into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking, and chop your kale, setting it aside for later. This organized approach will make cooking much smoother!

Step 2: Brown Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, crisp the bacon for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet. Add the sliced Italian sausage to the skillet, cooking for 8-10 minutes until it’s well browned and no longer pink. This step builds flavor for your soup!

Step 3: Cook Vegetables
Next, add the diced onion to the same skillet with the sausage drippings, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become beautifully translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This mixture will add a rich foundation to your Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup.

Step 4: Combine in Crockpot
Transfer the browned sausage and bacon to the crockpot. Layer in the cooked onions and garlic, then sprinkle in dried oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pour in about 6 cups of chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes. Giving it a gentle stir ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on High for 3.5 hours or Low for 7 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, making this hearty soup a true treat.

Step 6: Finish Soup
In the final stage, add the chopped kale and pour in room temperature cream into the soup, stirring gently. Cook on High for an additional 15 minutes or Low for 25 minutes, allowing the kale to wilt and blend into the soup. The result will be a creamy, hearty masterpiece that warms the soul.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup

Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. For best results, omit the cream before freezing; add it back in once reheating the soup to preserve texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir in the cream for a revitalizing finish.

Serving Size: This soup is perfect for meal prep, so consider portioning it in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Expert Tips for Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup

Timing Matters: Add kale in the last 15-25 minutes of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and slight crunch, ensuring it doesn’t turn mushy.
Meat Browning: Always brown the sausage and bacon before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances the overall flavor, creating a deep, savory base for your soup.
Potato Size is Key: Cut potatoes into 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and hold their shape, preventing them from becoming overly mushy during the slow cooking process.
Cream Caution: To prevent curdling, add room temperature cream at the end of cooking. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture in your soup without any lumps.
Taste Test Early: Adjust seasonings early on, especially the chicken broth. A taste test before adding in the cream can help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup Variations

Feel free to put your unique spin on this delightful soup with these fun alternatives!

Spinach Twist: Swap out kale for fresh spinach; it wilts beautifully and adds a different flavor profile.
Spicy Chorizo: Replace Italian sausage with spicy chorizo for a zesty, flavor-packed dish. This will turn up the heat and excitement!
Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness; they blend wonderfully with the other flavors.
Veggie Delight: Add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for more nutrients and texture. It’s an easy way to sneak in those servings!
Creamy Vegan-Version: Substitute coconut cream for dairy cream and use plant-based sausage to create a rich vegan alternative without losing richness.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an aromatic lift that dances through each spoonful. Fresh herbs elevate the entire dish!
Heat Boost: If you enjoy spice, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat level; perfect for those brisk winter nights.
Stock Dip: Instead of chicken broth, use vegetable broth for a lighter option; your soup will still be packed with flavor while catering to a vegan palate.

Pair this cozy soup with a crunchy side salad or some irresistible garlic bread. If you’re in the mood for more comforting soups, check out my recipes for Crockpot Thai Soup or Garlic Tomato Soup for additional inspiration!

What to Serve with Cozy Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup

Embrace the warmth and heartiness of your meal by complementing this cozy dish with delightful sides and pairings.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch and complements the soup’s warmth.
Garlic Bread: Infused with buttery garlic flavor, this bread enhances the Italian twist of the soup, making every bite feel indulgent.
Simple Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast that balances the soup’s richness.
Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky and warm, these biscuits are perfect for soaking up the savory broth while adding a cheesy goodness to every bite.
Steamed Green Beans: Crunchy and vibrant, green beans bring a fresh crispness to the table, creating a colorful contrast to the hearty soup.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight caramelization of Brussels sprouts adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dining experience.
Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider complements the savory and slightly sweet notes of the soup, making it a cheerful pairing.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, soft and chewy cookies provide the sweet finish to a cozy meal, creating a comforting close to your day.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Cozy Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup ahead of time is a game changer for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (potatoes, onions, garlic, and kale) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can brown the sausage and bacon, then refrigerate them separately for up to 24 hours before combining all ingredients in the crockpot. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply layer the prepped ingredients in the crockpot as instructed, add the broth, and cook on Low for 7 hours or High for 3.5 hours. This way, you’ll savor every delicious bite with half the work when it’s time for dinner!

Cozy Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right Italian sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing Italian sausage, look for fresh links labeled “Italian” at your butcher or grocery store. You’ll find sweet or spicy options; select based on your preferred flavor profile. If Italian sausage isn’t available, regular pork sausage seasoned with Italian herbs can be a fantastic substitute!

What’s the best way to store leftover soup?
Very! To keep your Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup fresh, transfer it to airtight containers after it has cooled completely. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to label the containers with the date, so you know when to enjoy them!

Can I freeze this soup, and if so, how should I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to omit the cream before freezing. Once your soup has cooled, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring in the cream to revive that luscious texture.

What should I do if the potatoes are mushy after cooking?
No worries! To prevent mushy potatoes in future batches of your cozy soup, make sure they are cubed into 1-inch pieces. Additionally, try not to overcook; check for doneness at the suggested cooking times. If they do turn out mushy, embrace the creaminess! You can puree a bit of the soup for a smooth texture while keeping some potato chunks for heartiness.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Very much! To make a gluten-free version of the Crockpot Sausage, Kale, and Potato Soup, simply ensure that your sausage is gluten-free and use gluten-free chicken broth. This will keep all the delicious flavors intact while accommodating dietary needs.

Is this soup healthy for my family, including pets?
Oh, indeed! This soup is nutrient-rich with veggies and protein, making it a wholesome choice for your family. However, be cautious with sharing; while ingredients like potatoes and kale are safe for dogs in moderation, avoid giving them any cream or onions, as these can be harmful to pets. Always check ingredients for allergies before sharing, especially for young kids or older relatives!