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Hearty Skillet Sausage and Kale Stew

By PanPotPlates Editorial TeamPublished Apr 17, 2026 | Updated May 11, 2026
Italian-Inspired 35 mins onepanskilleteasyheartycomfort foodweeknight dinnergluten-freequickflavorfulItalian sausage

Savor this quick and easy Italian-inspired sausage and kale stew cooked in one skillet, combining spicy Italian sausage, tender kale, and fire-roasted tomatoes in a flavorful, tomato broth—ideal for a wholesome, comforting weeknight meal.

Hearty Skillet Sausage and Kale Stew
Prep 10 min
Cook 25 min
Total 35 min
Servings 4
Difficulty easy
Cuisine Italian-Inspired

Recipe Details

Prep10 min
Cook25 min
Total35 min
Servings4
Difficultyeasy
CuisineItalian-Inspired
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Ingredients

Servings 4
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
  • 1 stalk celery, diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (about 4 cups)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredients for Hearty Skillet Sausage and Kale Stew
Ingredients for Hearty Skillet Sausage and Kale Stew

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
  6. Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices and chicken broth. Stir thoroughly, scraping any browned bits from the bottom.
  7. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  8. Add chopped kale and stir into the stew. Continue simmering until the kale is tender, about 5 more minutes.
  9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  10. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Hearty Skillet Sausage and Kale Stew cooking in the recommended pan or pot
Hearty Skillet Sausage and Kale Stew cooking in the recommended pan or pot

Tips

Pan Or Pot Required

This recipe is a classic one-pan skillet meal designed for a large, deep skillet.

Cookware Size Guidance

For this Hearty Skillet Sausage and Kale Stew serving 4 people, we recommend a large skillet or sauté pan with at least 4 to 5 quarts capacity (around 12 inches diameter) .

Cookware Swap Guidance

This Hearty Skillet Sausage and Kale Stew is best prepared in a large heavy-bottomed skillet for optimal browning and easy stirring.

Leftovers Quality

Reheat gently and add a splash of liquid when needed to keep the texture moist and tender.

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