One-Pot Pesto Kielbasa Soup with Kale and Rice is the perfect comfort food soup for busy weeknights. This hearty, healthy kielbasa soup combines tender kielbasa sausage, savory pesto, vibrant kale, and rice in one pot. It’s easy to make, filling, and packed with nourishing ingredients, making it the ideal dinner for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a cozy dish to warm you up, this one-pot kielbasa and kale soup is sure to hit the spot. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt for gluten-free diets!

Last Updated February 21st, 2025.

Contents (show)

Why You’ll Love this Kielbasa Soup:

Flavor-packed Comfort: The savory turkey kielbasa, earthy kale, and rich pesto create a deliciously layered flavor profile that’s both satisfying and cozy, making this a kielbasa and kale soup you’ll crave again and again.
Quick & Easy: This one-pot kale soup is perfect for busy weeknights, coming together effortlessly in one pot to save you time and clean-up without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Healthy & Hearty: Packed with nutrient-rich kale, wholesome rice, and lean protein from kielbasa, this soup is a balanced, filling meal that’s as nourishing as it is hearty.
Customizable: Adjust the pesto to your preferred flavor level or add extra veggies to make this soup your own—customize your kielbasa soup to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredient Notes:

Turkey Kielbasa:
- This leaner version of kielbasa delivers the savory, smoky flavor you’d expect from traditional kielbasa but with less fat (I like Hillshire Farm’s Turkey Polska Kielbasa and always keep a package in the fridge for a quick dinner) . If you prefer a different sausage type, you can swap in pork kielbasa or chicken sausage for a different taste.
Carrots & Celery:
- These vegetables provide a subtle sweetness and crunch to the soup. The carrots add earthiness, while the celery brings freshness and aromatic bite, balancing the richness of the kielbasa.
Kale:
- Kale not only adds vibrant color but is also packed with vitamins and fiber. Be sure to destem the kale, as the stems can be tough. If you’re not a fan of kale, you can substitute with spinach or Swiss chard for similar texture and flavor.
Garlic & Onions:
- The garlic and onions create the aromatic base of the soup, adding depth and savory flavor. Sautéing them in butter enhances their natural sweetness before adding the broth.
Chicken Broth:
- The rich, savory flavor of chicken broth creates the perfect soup base, balancing the other ingredients. Use low-sodium chicken broth for more control over salt, or vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version.
Pesto:
- The pesto is the secret ingredient that ties everything together, offering a fresh, herbaceous burst of flavor. Use store-bought pesto for convenience, or make your own for a more personalized touch. For a dairy-free pesto, try substituting nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
Rice:
- Long-grain white rice absorbs the broth and adds a satisfying texture. You can swap in brown rice or quinoa for added fiber, but keep in mind these alternatives will require longer cooking times.
Shredded Parmesan:
- Topping the soup with freshly shredded Parmesan adds a savory, salty finish that enhances the overall flavor. For a dairy-free version, you can skip the Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.

Dietary Restriction & Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:

To Make It Gluten-Free:
- Ensure your turkey kielbasa is gluten-free by checking the label.
- Use gluten-free pesto (many store-bought options are available) or make your own with gluten-free ingredients.
- Opt for a gluten-free broth for the base (the Walmart house-brand broth is gluten-free!).
To Make It Dairy-Free:
- Swap the shredded Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Use a dairy-free pesto or make your own using ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and nutritional yeast.
- Ensure the turkey kielbasa doesn’t contain dairy-based fillers (check the label).
To Make It Paleo:
- Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, grain-free one-pot kielbasa soup.
- Use nitrate-free sausage and ensure all other ingredients comply with paleo guidelines.
To Make It Keto:
- Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or another low-carb alternative, such as zucchini noodles.
- Ensure the pesto and kielbasa are free of added sugars or starches.
To Make It Vegetarian/Vegan:
- Swap the turkey kielbasa for a plant-based sausage or tofu.
- Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
- Use a vegan pesto (or make your own with nutritional yeast) and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
To Make It Nut-Free:
- If your pesto recipe or store-bought version contains nuts, substitute with a nut-free pesto (try using sunflower or pumpkin seeds for texture).

Additional Substitutions & Variations:

Add more vegetables: If you’re looking for a more veggie-packed soup, consider adding zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes. These will blend well with the existing flavors without overpowering them.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or add some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. This will bring an extra layer of flavor to your soup without making it overly spicy.
Add Beans: For an even heartier soup, consider adding a can of white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans). They’ll absorb the broth and give the soup a creamy texture. Make sure to rinse and drain the beans before adding them. Or for a thicker consistency, smash a few beans against the side of the pot to release the starches.
Swap the Sausage: While turkey kielbasa is lean and flavorful, feel free to swap it out for other types of sausage, such as chicken sausage or smoked sausage, depending on your preference. If you prefer a vegetarian option, plant-based sausages or even tofu can be used in place of the kielbasa.
Change Up the Greens: If you’re not a fan of kale, try using spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens. They all provide similar health benefits and will add a nice pop of color to the turkey kielbasa soup.
Creamy Twist: For a creamier soup, stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving. This will transform the texture of the soup into something rich and indulgent.
Top It with Croutons: For a fun twist, add homemade or store-bought croutons to the top of your soup before serving. They’ll add some crunch and extra flavor to the meal.
Lemon Zest: For an extra fresh and zesty touch, grate some lemon zest over the soup right before serving. This will give the soup a bright, citrusy note that complements the pesto.

kale and kielbasa soup with rice and parmesan

Expert Tips & Recipe Notes:

Sauté the Veggies First:
- For the best flavor, take a few extra minutes to sauté the garlic, onions, carrots, and celery in butter before adding the broth. This step helps bring out the natural sweetness and depth of the vegetables, creating a savory base that will enhance the overall soup flavor.
Adjust the Pesto:
- Pesto adds a bold, herby punch to the soup, so start with 1 tablespoon and taste before adding more. If you prefer a lighter pesto flavor, you can always add less or make a “pesto swirl” just before serving for a more subtle effect. A little goes a long way!
Prepping the Kale:
- Be sure to destem the kale for this healthy kale soup, as the stems can be tough and fibrous. To easily remove the stems, hold the base of the stem and pull the leaves off by hand. If you prefer a softer green, you can substitute kale with spinach or Swiss chard. Both will cook down similarly and offer a mild flavor.
Rice Substitution:
- If you want to make this healthy soup recipe lower-carb, swap the rice with cauliflower rice or another low-carb grain substitute like zucchini noodles. If you’re using a different grain, like quinoa or brown rice, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Brown rice will take longer to cook, while quinoa cooks a bit faster.
Make Ahead:
- This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option. The flavors deepen over time, so it’s even more comforting the next day. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Freezing:
- If you plan to freeze the soup, consider freezing the kielbasa soup base (without the rice and kale) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, cook fresh rice and add it in just before serving for the best texture.
Customize the Veggies:
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to maintain a balanced consistency throughout the soup.
Parmesan Tip:
- If you like a cheesy finish, don’t skip the freshly grated Parmesan. It adds a savory, salty kick that complements the pesto beautifully. For an even richer finish, you can also swirl in some cream or half-and-half at the end for a creamy, comforting soup.

Kielbasa, Kale, & Rice Soup FAQ’s:

Can I make this soup with pork kielbasa instead of turkey kielbasa?
- Absolutely! You can substitute turkey kielbasa with pork kielbasa or chicken sausage. Pork kielbasa will bring a slightly richer flavor, while turkey kielbasa keeps things leaner and lighter.
Can I use other greens instead of kale?
- Yes, you can swap kale with leafy greens such as spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens. Each option will change the texture a bit, but all will work beautifully in this soup. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, spinach is a great nutritional choice.
What type of rice works best in this soup?
- This quick kale soup recipe uses long-grain white rice, which gives the soup a light and satisfying texture without a long cooking time. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute with brown rice or quinoa, though be mindful of the different cooking times. For a low-carb alternative, consider using cauliflower rice.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Yes! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen as it sits. If making this soup with the intent of meal prepping, make the soup without the rice, and add the rice fresh when reheating to keep it from becoming soggy. It’s a great for meal prepping or having on hand as a quick weeknight meal. For even easier reheating, freeze the base (without the rice and kale) for up to 3 months.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind, the rice may adsorb some of the broth as it sits in the refrigerator. Add more broth as needed when reheating. For long-term storage, freeze the soup (without rice and kale) for up to 3 months. Simply cook fresh rice and add it in when you reheat.
What can I use instead of pesto?
- If you’re not a fan of pesto or want a different flavor, you can swap it for a variety of herbs and seasonings. Consider adding fresh basil, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even a touch of heavy cream for richness. If you need a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast can work as a cheesy substitute.
Is this soup gluten-free?
- Yes, this soup can be made gluten-free with a few simple substitutions. Make sure the kielbasa and pesto are gluten-free, and choose a gluten-free broth and rice as well to keep everything safe. Many store-bought pesto options are gluten-free, or you can easily make your own.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
- Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add extra veggies like sweet potatoes, or bell peppers. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

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