The Best Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup Recipe for Busy Weeknights
This Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage & Kale Soup is an incredibly hearty, comforting, and nutrient-packed meal, perfect for chilly evenings. Imagine coming home to the savory aroma of a delicious Tuscan-inspired soup simmering gently in your crockpot, ready to warm you from the inside out. With minimal effort required upfront, this “dump it in and forget it” recipe allows you to enjoy rich, complex flavors without being tied to the kitchen. It’s an ideal choice for busy families or anyone looking for a wholesome meal that practically cooks itself.
Voila! An effortless one-pot wonder that infuses your entire home with an amazing fragrance as it slow-cooks to perfection. This Tuscan-inspired soup delivers on both taste and convenience, requiring no extra fuss or constant monitoring. It’s a complete meal bursting with flavor and wholesome ingredients, making it a staple for any home cook.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Tuscan Kale and Sausage Soup
- Effortless, Hands-off Cooking: The slow cooker is your best friend here. Simply add your ingredients, set it, and go about your day. You’ll return to a delicious, warm, and satisfying meal with absolutely zero last-minute stress. It’s the ultimate solution for busy schedules.
- Packed with Nutritious Veggies: This soup is a vibrant celebration of healthy ingredients. Featuring chickpeas, nutrient-rich kale, sweet carrots, crisp celery, and colorful bell pepper, it offers a fantastic array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s a truly nourishing meal that makes eating your greens easy and enjoyable.
- Incredible Flavor Profile: The combination of savory Italian sausage, aromatic garlic and onions, tangy crushed tomatoes, and robust Italian seasoning creates a depth of flavor that tastes like it simmered for hours (because it did!). Every spoonful is a journey to the heart of Tuscan comfort food.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing pantry staples like chickpeas and crushed tomatoes, along with affordable ground turkey or sausage, this recipe is kind to your wallet. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your food budget while still enjoying a gourmet-quality meal.
- Customizable and Versatile: This recipe is incredibly adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand. Easily swap out proteins, add extra vegetables, or adjust the spice level to create your perfect bowl of soup.
- Wonderful for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld and deepen. It’s perfect for prepping on a Sunday and enjoying throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
FREE Budget-Friendly Meal Plan!
Save thousands of dollars on food every year with my free budget-friendly meal plan ebook. Discover delicious, economical recipes that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. Get your copy today and start transforming your grocery budget!
Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Your Slow Cooker Tuscan Soup
Crafting this delicious slow cooker Tuscan sausage and kale soup requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Below, we’ll dive into each one and offer versatile substitutions to make this recipe work for your pantry and preferences.
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and building a flavorful base. Extra virgin olive oil will lend a richer taste, but any neutral cooking oil such as avocado or grapeseed oil will work equally well for browning.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides an indispensable aromatic foundation for any Tuscan-inspired dish. For convenience, feel free to use jarred minced garlic. In a pinch, a teaspoon of garlic powder can be substituted, though fresh is always recommended for maximum flavor.
- Yellow onions: These sweet and savory alliums are crucial for depth. White onions are a perfect substitute, offering a similar flavor profile. Shallots can provide a milder, more delicate onion flavor, or you could even use red onions if you don’t mind a slightly bolder taste and color.
- Carrot: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and essential nutrients to the soup. If you don’t have carrots, other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes can be used, or simply omit them if you prefer.
- Celery: Together with onions and carrots, celery forms the classic mirepoix, a foundational flavor base in many soups. Like carrots, you can substitute with other mild vegetables or leave it out if not available.
- Italian seasoning: This blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary is key to the Tuscan flavor. If you don’t have a pre-mixed seasoning, create your own by combining equal parts of dried oregano, dried basil, and dried parsley. A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary would also be excellent additions.
- Chicken broth: The liquid base of our soup. Vegetable broth is the ideal alternative for a vegetarian version or if you simply prefer it. Beef broth could also work for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes: These provide the rich, slightly tangy tomato base. Diced tomatoes (petite diced for a smoother texture), tomato sauce, or even canned whole peeled tomatoes (crushed by hand) will work beautifully. Fresh, ripe tomatoes can also be used if chopped finely and simmered longer. Passata is also an excellent option if you prefer a very smooth tomato consistency.
- Chickpeas: Adding protein, fiber, and a satisfying texture, chickpeas are a wonderful addition. Great alternatives include fava beans, pinto beans, or black beans, all of which would contribute to the heartiness of the soup.
- Red pepper: Adds a pop of color, sweetness, and Vitamin C. Any bell pepper color (yellow or orange) can be used, or you can opt for another soft vegetable like zucchini. If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, it can be left out entirely.
- Kale: This superfood adds earthy notes and a healthy boost. Collard greens, Swiss chard, or fresh spinach are all excellent alternatives. Spinach will wilt much faster, so add it at the very last minute.
For the Turkey Sausage (if making from scratch):
- Ground turkey: A leaner protein choice that readily absorbs flavors. Any ground meat like chicken, pork, or even a plant-based ground substitute will work well. For extra convenience, you can use pre-made Italian turkey sausage (casings removed) instead of seasoning ground turkey yourself.
- Fennel: This is the secret ingredient that gives Italian sausage its distinctive taste. Anise seeds or ground cumin can offer a similar aromatic profile in a pinch, though fennel is highly recommended for authenticity.
- Garlic powder: Complements the fresh garlic and adds an additional layer of savory flavor. Ginger powder (use sparingly), ground cumin, or ground coriander can be used as alternatives, depending on the desired flavor shift.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors. Adjust to taste.
How to Make This Amazing Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup
Preparing this hearty Tuscan soup in your slow cooker is incredibly simple, making it perfect for those busy days when you need a delicious meal without constant attention. Follow these straightforward steps for a comforting bowl of goodness:
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage.
If you’re using store-bought Italian sausage, carefully remove the casings and then crumble the meat into smaller pieces. For those opting to make their own turkey sausage from scratch, combine the ground turkey with the fennel, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed, then break the mixture into small crumbles. While browning the sausage beforehand is optional (see FAQs), it adds a fantastic depth of flavor. If doing so, quickly brown it in a skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink before transferring to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Chop Your Veggies.
This step is all about getting your aromatics and other vegetables ready. Finely dice your yellow onions, carrots, and celery. These three ingredients form the classic mirepoix, which will create a fragrant and savory base for your soup as it slow cooks. Ensure all other optional vegetables you plan to include are chopped to a uniform size for even cooking. The red pepper and kale will be added later, so set those aside for now.
Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker.
Now, it’s time to assemble your soup in the slow cooker. Add the prepared sausage (whether browned or raw), along with the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Finally, add the Italian seasoning and chickpeas. Give everything a good stir to combine all the wonderful flavors. Remember to hold back on the diced red pepper and chopped kale at this stage, as they will be incorporated towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their texture and vibrant color.
Step 4: Cook the Soup.
Once all the initial ingredients are in, secure the lid on your slow cooker. Set the cooking time based on your schedule: cook on high for 6 hours, or for a slower, more gradual infusion of flavors, cook on low for 8 hours. The slow cooking process will allow all the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a rich and aromatic broth. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often, as this can extend the cooking time.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches.
When the cooking time is complete, and the vegetables are tender, it’s time for the final additions. Carefully remove the lid and stir in the diced red pepper and the fresh chopped kale. The residual heat from the hot soup will quickly wilt the kale and soften the red pepper, allowing them to retain some of their fresh texture and bright color, preventing them from becoming mushy. Stir them in thoroughly and replace the lid for a few minutes to allow them to gently steam and incorporate into the soup.
Step 6: Rest and Serve.
For optimal flavor and to allow the soup to slightly cool to a comfortable eating temperature, let the soup sit with the lid on for about 3–4 minutes after adding the kale and red pepper. Then, ladle the delicious Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup into warm bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired, and enjoy this incredibly satisfying and easy-to-make meal!
Recipe Tips and Variations for Your Tuscan Kale Soup
This Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing for many creative twists to suit your taste and what you have available. Here are a few suggestions to make it truly your own:
- Stovetop Version for Quicker Cooking: If you’re short on time and don’t want to use a slow cooker, this soup can easily be made on the stovetop. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the sausage until browned, then add the diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the carrots, celery, and Italian seasoning, cooking for another few minutes. Then, add the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and chickpeas. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 30–40 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors have melded. Stir in kale and red pepper during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
- Make it Creamy and Indulgent: For a richer, more luxurious soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a bit of full-fat coconut milk (for a dairy-free option) at the very end of cooking. This will add a beautiful velvety texture and mellow out the flavors.
- Swap the Protein for Variety: Beyond turkey sausage, feel free to experiment with other proteins. Try savory chicken sausage for a slightly different flavor, ground pork for a more traditional Italian flair, or a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option. Ground beef or Italian-flavored meatballs could also be fantastic.
- Boost the Veggies and Fiber: Enhance the nutritional value and heartiness of your soup by adding extra vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers (of any color), diced potatoes, or white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans) are all excellent additions that increase fiber and substance.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you love a kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning. For a milder, family-friendly version, stick to mild Italian sausage and omit the extra spice. You can always add individual servings with extra spice at the table.
- Add a Grain for Extra Fullness: For an even more substantial meal, consider stirring in a small amount of cooked pasta (like ditalini or small shells) or rice during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. This will absorb some of the delicious broth and make the soup more filling.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, a swirl of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil leaves, or some crispy croutons can elevate the presentation and add extra layers of flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup
Here are some common questions to help you perfect your Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup:
Will the kale lose its texture if cooked too long?
Yes, absolutely. Kale wilts beautifully and becomes tender in hot soup, but if added too early in the slow cooking process, it can become overly soft, mushy, and lose its vibrant color. For the best texture, retaining some of its pleasant bite and bright green hue, it is highly recommended to stir the kale in during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, allowing it just enough time to wilt in the residual heat of the hot soup.
Can I cook this entirely in the slow cooker without pre-browning the sausage?
Yes, you can certainly skip the step of pre-browning the sausage if you are truly pressed for time and want a complete dump-and-go meal. While browning the sausage adds a deeper, more caramelized flavor (known as the Maillard reaction), the soup will still be incredibly flavorful and tasty without it. The convenience factor of not browning is often worth the slight trade-off in flavor depth for many home cooks.
Do I need to add extra oil to the slow cooker when using sausage?
Generally, no. Most types of sausage, whether pork, turkey, or chicken, contain enough natural fat to render out during the slow cooking process. This fat will contribute to the rich flavor of the soup and usually prevents sticking. If you are using an extremely lean ground meat or plant-based sausage, you might consider adding a very small amount of olive oil to the slow cooker to prevent any potential sticking and enhance flavor, but it’s often not necessary with traditional sausages.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! To make this soup vegetarian, simply swap the turkey sausage for a plant-based sausage alternative or a combination of mushrooms and extra chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, ensure any creamy additions (if using) are plant-based (like full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream) and omit any cheese garnishes.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
While fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor, you can substitute it with garlic powder. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic recommended. For this recipe, that would be approximately 2 teaspoons of garlic powder.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with This Hearty Dish
This Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to create a well-rounded and delightful dining experience. Here are some excellent companions to serve alongside a warm bowl of this comforting soup:
- Crusty Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! A warm, buttery slice of homemade or store-bought garlic bread is absolutely perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory, rich broth. The crunch of the bread provides a lovely textural contrast to the tender soup.
- Simple Side Salads: To balance the richness of the soup and add a refreshing element, a crisp green salad is an excellent choice. Consider light and vibrant options like Mason Jar Salads + 5 Recipes for convenience, or the bright and peppery The BEST Arugula Salad. A simple vinaigrette dressing works best to keep it light.
- Crispy Air Fryer Veggie Fries: For an added crunch and extra dose of vegetables, these healthy air fryer fries are a fantastic side. Their crispy texture and savory flavor provide a wonderful contrast. Try these mouthwatering options: Crispiest Air Fryer Zucchini Fries, Crispy Green Bean Fries, or the naturally sweet Healthy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries.
- A Simple Charcuterie Board: For a more European feel, a small board with some olives, artisanal cheeses, and cured meats can be a delightful accompaniment to this Italian-inspired soup.
Storing and Reheating Your Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage Soup
One of the best things about this Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup is how well it stores and reheats, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight!
Make Ahead: This soup is ideal for preparing in advance. You can assemble all the ingredients (minus the kale and red pepper) in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate it overnight. Then, simply place it in the slow cooker in the morning and let it simmer. Alternatively, prepare the soup completely in the slow cooker earlier in the day and keep it on the “warm” setting until you’re ready to serve, stirring in the fresh kale and red pepper just before serving.
Store: Any leftover soup should be allowed to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store these containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes for quick and healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Reheat: To enjoy your delicious leftovers, individual portions can be easily warmed in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly heated. For larger quantities, transfer the soup to a pot and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
Freeze and Reheat from Frozen: This soup freezes beautifully! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until thawed and hot. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to add fresh kale at the end, as previously frozen kale can become a bit too soft.
More Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes to Explore
If you loved the ease and flavor of this Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup, you’re in for a treat! The slow cooker is a fantastic tool for creating comforting, hands-off meals with minimal fuss. Explore these other fantastic recipes that will make your life easier and your taste buds happier.
-
Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
-
One Pot Butternut Squash Chicken Curry
-
Crock Pot Vegetarian Lentil Chili
Essential Meal Prep Tools for This Recipe
Having the right tools can make your cooking and meal prepping experience significantly smoother. These are some of my go-to items that will help you prepare and enjoy this Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup with ease:
- Get your durable and convenient square glass meal prep bowls here – they’re absolutely perfect for neatly packing up your delicious leftovers for healthy meals throughout the week!
- Ensure your kitchen is equipped with a reliable slow cooker – the star of this effortless recipe!
- For high-quality, free-range poultry and other meats, I always recommend sourcing from Butcher Box. Their commitment to quality makes a noticeable difference in the flavor of your dishes.
Slow Cooker Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup
Print
Pin
Rate
SEND ME MY PLAN
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 yellow onions, diced
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (796mL) jar crushed/strained tomatoes (passata)
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 2 cups kale, chopped
Turkey sausage
- 1 lb ground turkey (or use 4 turkey sausages instead of making your own, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds, crushed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
-
If using store-bought Italian sausages, carefully remove the casings and break up the meat into crumbles. If you’re opting to make your own turkey sausage, combine the ground turkey with fennel, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well and then crumble. Add the prepared sausage (optionally browned for richer flavor), diced onions, minced garlic, chopped carrots, celery, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes (passata), and chickpeas to your slow cooker. Stir everything together thoroughly, but hold back the diced red pepper and chopped kale for later.
-
Cover your slow cooker and cook on the HIGH setting for 6 hours, or on the LOW setting for 8 hours. Once the cooking time is complete and the soup is piping hot with tender vegetables, stir in the diced red pepper and fresh kale. Let the soup sit with the lid on for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the kale to wilt and the red pepper to slightly soften while retaining some bite. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, flavorful Tuscan soup!
Video
Notes
Feel free to substitute the recommended vegetables with any other veggies of your choosing, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or additional beans to enhance the nutritional content.
For best texture and color, always stir in the red pepper and kale at the very end of the cooking process, allowing them to wilt gently in the hot soup.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat easily in the microwave or on the stovetop.
This soup is freezer-friendly! Freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months for convenient future meals. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen on the stovetop.
Nutrition
