Thereโs something wonderfully comforting about a pot of chunky potato kale soup simmering away on the stove. This hearty and wholesome dish brings together rustic potatoes, vibrant kale, and savory broth in one soul-soothing bowl. Perfect for those cooler nights or when you just need a nourishing bowl of goodness, it delivers satisfaction with every bite.
What makes this soup special is its simplicity. It doesnโt rely on fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Itโs the kind of recipe that reminds you how delicious fresh, basic ingredients can be when they come together in the right way. Whether youโre a seasoned home cook or just learning your way around the kitchen, this soup is friendly, forgiving, and always flavorful.
Why Youโll Love This Chunky Potato Kale Soup
This soup is perfect for families, meal prepping, or even a cozy dinner for one. The potatoes offer a creamy, comforting texture, while the kale brings a fresh, slightly peppery balance that lifts the entire dish. Itโs naturally gluten-free, easily made vegan, and flexible enough for your favorite add-ins like white beans or sausage.
Itโs also a fantastic way to use up vegetables before your next grocery run. Bonus: your kitchen will smell amazing while it cooks.
What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?
For a rich and creamy base, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal. They break down slightly as they cook, which thickens the soup naturally without the need for cream. If you prefer your potatoes to hold their shape more firmly, red potatoes or baby potatoes work beautifully as well. Choose what you love and have on handโthis soup is wonderfully adaptable.
Ingredients for the Chunky Potato Kale Soup
To make this cozy soup shine, you only need a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The stars are bold and humble, coming together to create rich flavor and texture.
- Potatoes
- Kale
- Yellow onion
- Garlic
- Vegetable broth
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Dried thyme
- Crushed red pepper (optional)
Potatoes create the base of the soup and bring that creamy, satisfying bite. Kale adds earthy green depth and a healthy punch. Onion and garlic are essential for a flavorful foundation. Vegetable broth ties everything together, and a touch of olive oil helps sautรฉ the aromatics. Seasonings round out the flavor without overwhelming the natural goodness.

How To Make the Chunky Potato Kale Soup
Step 1: Sautรฉ the Aromatics
Heat a large pot over medium heat with olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes
Peel and chop the potatoes into small chunks. Add them to the pot along with the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the potatoes in the aromatics and spices.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, making sure it covers the potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Add the Kale
Remove the thick stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Stir the kale into the soup and let it simmer uncovered for about 5 to 7 minutes, until wilted and tender.
Step 5: Adjust and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat, or stir in some lemon juice for brightness. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
How to Serve and Store This Soup
Chunky potato kale soup is best served steaming hot with a slice of crusty bread or a warm biscuit. For a little indulgence, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan on top or swirl in a spoonful of sour cream.
This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings, depending on portion size. Itโs great for meal prep since it stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave. It also freezes beautifully for up to 2 monthsโjust thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
What to Serve With Chunky Potato Kale Soup?
Crusty Bread
A thick slice of sourdough or multigrain bread is perfect for soaking up every drop.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Go classic or try with sharp cheddar and caramelized onions for extra flavor.
Apple Walnut Salad
A crisp, sweet salad brings contrast and brightness to the warm, hearty soup.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted veggies with olive oil and sea salt make a cozy companion to your soup.
Garlic Breadsticks
Soft, buttery, and garlickyโthese are always welcome next to a bowl of soup.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Add a touch of sweetness and crunch with a pile of oven-baked sweet potato fries.
Cheese Toasts
Quick and simple, melted cheese on toast is a comfort food favorite.
Want More Soup Ideas with a Comforting Twist?
If this chunky potato kale soup warms your heart, try these other soul-soothing favorites from Mia Plates:
- Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup
- Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup
- Chicken Pot Pie Soup
- Boilermaker Tailgate Chili
- Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
Save This Recipe For Later
๐ Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so itโs ready when the craving strikes.
And let me know how your version turns out. Did you toss in some white beans or go all-in on spice? Did your kids ask for seconds?
I love seeing the ways you all bring these recipes to life. Share your tips, tweaks, or questions in the commentsโletโs make something delicious together.
Explore more comfort food and healthy dinner ideas on Mia Recipes on Pinterest.

Chunky Potato Kale Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Description
This chunky potato kale soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food, loaded with hearty potatoes, fresh kale, and rich savory broth. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or meal prep, itโs a naturally gluten-free and easily vegan soup recipe full of flavor and warmth.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chopped Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
5 cups vegetable broth
4 cups chopped kale, stems removed
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add chopped potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the potatoes in aromatics.
4. Pour in vegetable broth, making sure it covers the potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Stir in chopped kale and simmer uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes until wilted.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste. Add crushed red pepper or lemon juice if desired.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side.
Notes
This soup can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth and skipping any dairy toppings.
For added protein, toss in a can of drained white beans or cooked sausage slices.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg


