There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup brings warmth and comfort to the table. With a medley of flavors from spicy turkey sausage, fresh kale, and tender orecchiette, it’s a nourishing dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup is not just any soup; it’s a complete meal packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. The combination of spicy turkey sausage and vibrant kale creates a flavor explosion, while the whole wheat orecchiette adds a satisfying heartiness. It’s easy to prepare, makes great leftovers, and can be customized according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress guests, this soup is versatile enough for any occasion.

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up this delightful soup, gather the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 sweet onion, diced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
4 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
1 pound spicy Italian turkey sausage
1 cup whole wheat orecchiette pasta
4 cups fresh kale, removed from stems and torn into pieces
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, plus more for sprinkling

Equipment at a Glance

Before you dive into the cooking process, ensure you have the following equipment on hand:

Large pot or Dutch oven – ideal for simmering soups.
Wooden spoon – for stirring without scratching your pot.
Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key in cooking.
Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables and preparing the sausage.

How to Prepare Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced sweet onion, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic is aromatic.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Next, add the spicy Italian turkey sausage to the pot. Break it up with your spoon into smaller pieces as it cooks. Allow the sausage to brown for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it’s cooked through and nicely caramelized.

Step 3: Add Stock and Pasta

Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the whole wheat orecchiette pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 4: Incorporate the Kale

After the pasta has cooked, stir in the torn kale leaves. Allow them to wilt for about 2-3 minutes, just until they are tender but still vibrant green.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, and be generous with additional cheese on top when serving.

Substitutions by Diet

If you’re looking to tailor this Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup to fit specific dietary needs, consider the following substitutions:

For a vegetarian option, substitute the spicy turkey sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta instead of whole wheat orecchiette.
To make it dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a nut-based cheese alternative.
For extra protein, consider adding canned beans like cannellini or chickpeas along with the kale.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best cooks can hit a snag. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

If the soup is too spicy, add a splash of cream or coconut milk to mellow the heat.
For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add in a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water.
If the flavor is lacking, a splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten it up significantly.
Overcooked pasta? Don’t worry! Just add more stock to maintain the soupiness.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup is perfect for batch cooking and freezing. Here are some tips:

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Store in portions for easy reheating; it’s best consumed within 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove, adding a splash of stock as needed.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat orecchiette?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta for whole wheat orecchiette if you prefer. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce when serving. You can also experiment with spicy sausage varieties.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions at the beginning.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and makes for a great meal prep option, as the flavors deepen after sitting. Just keep in mind to store the pasta separately if you plan to freeze it.

If you enjoyed this Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup, you might also like these delicious recipes:

See You at the Table

This Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share a meal with loved ones. It embodies warmth, flavor, and a sense of comfort that only homemade soup can deliver. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your soup pot, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Happy cooking!

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