Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms your soul, let me introduce you to my favorite Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup! This delightful soup combines the creamy goodness of cauliflower with savory sausage and hearty kale. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have family and friends gathered around the table. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this delicious meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying soup that’s sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to get those veggies in while enjoying the rich flavors of sausage and bacon. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 ingredients, you’ll have this soup on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and delicious flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with veggies like cauliflower and kale, it’s a healthy choice you can feel good about.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of sausage, bacon, and spices creates an incredibly satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup. You probably have many of these in your kitchen already!

For the Soup

• 1 Tbsp. olive oil
• 12 oz. mild Italian sausage, removed from casing
• 3 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 1/4 pounds)
• 1 (32 oz.) carton chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 4 cups chopped curly kale
• Kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes for serving (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Go vegan: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage and use coconut milk instead of half and half.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños!

How to Make Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup

Step 1: Cook the Meat

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-duty soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the mild Italian sausage and chopped bacon. Cook until the sausage is browned and the bacon is crisp—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Break up the meat as it cooks for even browning. Once done, remove it to a plate with a slotted spoon. This step builds depth in flavor as we render out that tasty fat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Next, add the diced onion to the pot. Cook until soft—about 3-4 minutes—then stir in minced garlic. You only want to cook it briefly for about 30 seconds; this releases its fragrant oils without burning. These aromatics will enhance our soup’s overall flavor profile.

Step 3: Simmer with Cauliflower

Now it’s time to add in those lovely veggies! Toss in your cauliflower florets, followed by the entire carton of chicken broth. Season generously with kosher salt and fresh black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender. This step infuses all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 4: Puree Until Smooth

Once your cauliflower is tender, puree the soup until smooth using either a high-powered blender or an immersion blender right in the pot. Blending gives us that creamy texture we crave! If you’re using a blender, be careful with hot liquids—allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Finish with Creaminess

Finally, stir in your cup of half-and-half, bringing everything back to a gentle simmer. Add back in your cooked sausage, bacon, and toss in those beautiful greens—your chopped curly kale. Let everything simmer together until the kale is wilted—about 5 minutes more. Taste your creation for seasoning one last time; adjust as needed before serving with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

And there you have it—a bowl of warmth ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup

Creating the perfect Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup is all about the little details that make a big difference! Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cauliflower, kale, and high-quality sausage can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Fresh produce tends to have more nutrients and a better taste, making your dish more enjoyable.
• Adjust the spice level: Customize the heat by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes according to your preference. This allows you to cater the soup to your family’s taste, ensuring everyone enjoys it.
• Blend until smooth: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend your soup until it’s completely smooth. This step not only makes for a velvety mouthfeel but also helps incorporate all the flavors evenly throughout the soup.
• Experiment with broth: If you’re looking for a deeper flavor, consider using homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought chicken broth. This can add an extra layer of richness to your soup while keeping it meat-free.
• Make ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and even freezes beautifully! Making it ahead of time can save you stress during busy weeknights and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup

Serving this Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup is just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this comforting dish into a delightful meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the soup.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup.
• Shredded cheese alternative: A sprinkle of dairy-free cheese on top brings an additional layer of creaminess and flavor without compromising dietary preferences.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole-grain bread: A slice of hearty whole-grain bread is perfect for dipping into your soup and soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts make a colorful and nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Quinoa or rice pilaf: A fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf infused with herbs can complement your soup’s flavors while also adding substance to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup will surely be a hit at any table. Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup is perfect for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For easy thawing, consider freezing in single-serving sizes.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing this delicious soup.

Can I use other types of sausage in Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite type of sausage, such as chicken or turkey sausage, for a lighter option. The flavor will still be fantastic!

How do I make Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, you can replace half and half with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. This will give you a creamy texture without dairy.

Can I add more vegetables to my Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup?

Yes! This soup is versatile—consider adding carrots, celery, or even sweet potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with nutrients from cauliflower and kale while being lower in calories compared to traditional creamy soups. It’s a wholesome choice for any meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cauliflower Sausage Kale Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and nourishment. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!