Italian, Sausage, Kale, and Bean Soup

Winter is near and that means soup season! There’s something so warming and satisfying about a homemade soup after an afternoon of winter adventures. Chef Brandon has outdone himself with an Italian Sausage, Kale, and Bean Soup recipe. This recipe has a lot of quick steps, but it is worth it when you get a whiff of it simmering in the Dutch oven. Roll up your sleeves and let’s get started.

Ingredients

3 Tbsp.                 Olive Oil, Divided

1 Lb.                      Italian Sausage

1                            Yellow Onion, Diced

2                            Large Carrots, Rinsed, Peeled and Sliced

3                            Celery Stalks, Rinsed and Sliced

1                            Bay Leaf

1                            Sprig Fresh Thyme

2 tsp.                     Italian Seasoning

4                            Cloves Garlic, Minced

Salt and Pepper To Taste

1 Bunch                Kale, Stems Removed and Rough Chopped

2 Cans                   White Cannellini Beans, Drained and Rinsed

6-8 C.                    Chicken or Vegetable Stock

1/2 C.                    Shredded Parmesan Cheese, Optional

Instructions

1.) Heat one tablespoon olive oil over medium heat in a large Dutch oven or soup pot.

2.) Add sausage and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until browned, stirring occasionally to break into smaller pieces.

3.) Transfer with a slotted spoon to a plate and set aside.

4.) Pour remining olive oil into the soup pot and heat it up.

5.) Add onions, carrots, celery, bay leaf, thyme, and Italian seasoning; cook for about 8 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

6.) Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper, and continue to cook for 1 minute.

7.) Mix in kale and cook until it starts to wilt, about 1-2 minutes.

8.) Stir in beans, prepared sausage, and broth; bring to a boil.

9.) Lower heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes to combine all the flavors.

10.) Remove from heat and take out the bay leaf and sprig of thyme.

11.) Divide soup among bowls and top with cheese.

We’re ready for soup season and so are you with this robust and hearty soup recipe! Tell us how much you love it and share photos on social media with #FourWindsCasino or by emailing photos to social@fourwindscasino.com. Tune in to more Cooking Creations with Chef Brandon on our Instagram and Facebook accounts for step-by-step videos.