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As the leaves begin to turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting stew to fill your home with the aromas of autumn. Our Cozy Autumn Sausage & Kale Stew is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, featuring savory Italian sausage, hearty vegetables, and nutrient-rich kale. This recipe not only warms your body but also nourishes your spirit, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings or a quiet evening at home. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation, and benefits of this wholesome stew, ensuring you have all the information you need to make it a staple in your fall cooking repertoire.

Fall Crockpot Sausage and Kale Stew

Warm up your chilly autumn days with this heartwarming Cozy Autumn Sausage & Kale Stew. Packed with savory Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and nutrient-rich kale, this delicious stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this recipe will not only fill your home with delightful aromas but also nourish your spirit. Discover the easy preparation steps and enjoy a wholesome meal that truly embodies the essence of fall.

Ingredients
  

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 carrots, peeled and sliced

2 ribs celery, diced

2 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold works well)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for a touch of brightness)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and brown the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and transfer the sausage to the crockpot.

    Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent. Add this mixture to the crockpot with the sausage.

      Add Remaining Ingredients: In the crockpot, add the diced potatoes, canned tomatoes (with their juice), broth, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

        Cook the Stew: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the vegetables are tender.

          Add the Kale: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale. Cover and let it wilt down.

            Finishing Touches: Once the kale is tender, stir in the apple cider vinegar. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

              Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal!

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