If you’re craving a comforting bowl of soup that’s both hearty and packed with bold flavors, look no further than this Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup. It’s the perfect blend of spicy turkey sausage, tender kale, and wholesome whole wheat pasta, all simmered in a fragrant garlic-infused chicken broth. This recipe is an absolute game-changer when you want something nourishing without sacrificing taste.

What makes this soup truly special is how simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a quick dinner fix, this soup is your new best friend. Plus, sprinkling on freshly grated parmigiano reggiano adds that perfect touch of savory richness. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so lovable and how you can master it yourself.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Bold and comforting flavors: The spicy Italian turkey sausage brings just the right amount of heat, balanced by the earthy kale and hearty whole wheat orecchiette.
Wholesome and nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is a nourishing meal in a bowl.
One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup and easy to make on busy weeknights.
Customizable spice level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Perfect for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day and freezes wonderfully.
Made with whole wheat pasta: Adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor, making it a healthier twist on classic comfort food.

What You’ll Need

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 sweet onion, diced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
4 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
1 pound spicy Italian turkey sausage (ensure it’s made from turkey for a leaner option)
1 cup whole wheat orecchiette pasta
4 cups fresh kale, stems removed and torn into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup freshly grated parmigiano reggiano cheese, plus extra for sprinkling

Tools of the Trade

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot – for even cooking and easy simmering.
Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – to sauté and stir ingredients.
Sharp knife and cutting board – to prep your onion, garlic, and kale.
Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure the perfect balance of seasoning and liquids.
Ladle – for serving up those lovely bowls of soup.
Grater – to freshly grate your parmigiano reggiano cheese.

Mastering Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup: How-To

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Sausage

Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion along with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, crumble in the spicy Italian turkey sausage. Cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. This step builds the base flavor, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Add the Broth and Bring to a Simmer

Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits — that’s where the magic happens! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Once simmering, add the whole wheat orecchiette pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente.

Step 4: Stir in the Kale

When the pasta is almost done, stir in the torn kale pieces. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the kale is wilted but still vibrant and tender.

Step 5: Finish with Parmigiano Reggiano

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmigiano reggiano cheese. This adds a beautiful depth of flavor and creamy texture to the broth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with extra parmigiano reggiano if desired. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

Pro tip: If you love the flavor combo of sausage and creamy sauces, you might want to check out my Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta recipe for another indulgent yet wholesome meal.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

Swap out the whole wheat orecchiette for shirataki or zucchini noodles to keep it low-carb.
Use a higher fat turkey sausage or even ground chicken thigh for more richness.
Replace the chicken stock with bone broth to increase protein and collagen content.
Skip the cheese topping or use a keto-friendly cheese alternative if dairy is a concern.

Insider Tips

Use fresh kale: It has the best texture and flavor. Be sure to remove the tough stems for a better mouthfeel.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Whole wheat pasta can get mushy quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Adjust spice levels: If you prefer milder soup, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully.
For a creamier texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This soup holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If freezing, leave out the pasta and kale, then add fresh when reheating to prevent sogginess. Alternatively, you can freeze the fully prepared soup, but expect a softer pasta texture upon thawing. For best results, reheat over low heat and stir occasionally.

Try These Next

Chicken And Rice Soup – a comforting classic for chilly days.
Cheesy Chicken And Rice Soup – rich, creamy, and perfect for family dinners.
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta – if you love sausage and creamy sauces, this one’s a must-try.

Final Bite

This Spicy Sausage, Kale and Whole Wheat Orecchiette Soup is just the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cool evening. It’s hearty, wholesome, and bursting with flavor — plus, it’s so easy to whip up! Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen rotation.

Feel free to personalize it to your liking, playing with spice levels and ingredients. Don’t forget to serve it with a sprinkle of parmigiano reggiano cheese and perhaps a crusty piece of bread. Enjoy every delicious spoonful and savor the comforting goodness that this soup brings to your table!