Fall Crockpot Sausage and Kale Stew

Warm up this fall with a comforting bowl of Hearty Fall Crockpot Sausage and Kale Stew. This easy recipe brings together savory Italian sausage, vibrant kale, and a mix of hearty vegetables, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Ideal for family dinners or meal prepping, this stew not only satisfies your hunger but also enriches your diet with essential nutrients. Discover the simple steps to create a delicious, soul-warming dish perfect for chilly days ahead. Enjoy the delightful aroma as it fills your home!

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Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage (choose either sweet or spicy according to your taste)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 medium carrots, sliced into rounds

3 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal)

4 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)

2 cups kale, stems removed and roughly chopped

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, including juices

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Cook until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula as it cooks, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer the sausage to the crockpot.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, add in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes until slightly softened. Transfer this mixture to the crockpot.

Combine All Ingredients: In the crockpot, add the chicken broth, chopped kale, undrained diced tomatoes, dried thyme, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Cook the Stew: Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully together.

Serve and Garnish: After cooking, give the stew a hearty stir. Ladle the steaming stew into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 7-8 hours | Serves 6