Sausage Soup Comforting and Heartwarming Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference), casings removed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• to taste salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or orzo)
• for serving Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the drippings.
4. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Return the sausage to the pot, and add the diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer.
7. Add the small pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
8. Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until wilted and tender.
9. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.