This hearty and flavorful soup is packed with Italian sausage, kale, and a creamy Parmesan broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cold winter night or a lazy Sunday afternoon.
The origins of this soup are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have originated in the Tuscan region of Italy. In the Middle Ages, Tuscan peasants would often make a simple soup with whatever vegetables they had on hand, and sausage was a common addition. Over time, the soup evolved into the rich and flavorful dish we know today.
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 large bunch kale, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the sausage and cook until browned.
Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
Add the chicken broth and kale to the pot and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the kale is tender.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the soup is heated through.
Serve immediately.
Why It Works
The combination of Italian sausage, kale, and Parmesan cheese creates a complex and satisfying flavor.
The heavy cream adds a touch of richness and creaminess to the soup.
The crushed red pepper flakes add a hint of heat that balances out the other flavors.