Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup

As the chill of winter settles in, I often find myself reaching for my trusty slow cooker and the comforting warmth of a hearty soup. One of my all-time favorites is Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup. This dish not only fills the house with delightful aromas but also warms your soul with every spoonful. I remember the first time I made it; the blend of tender turkey sausage, nutty barley, and vibrant vegetables brought smiles to my family’s faces. There’s something magical about coming home to a meal that’s been simmering all day, ready to nourish you after a long day. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or as a meal prep option for busy weekdays. You won’t believe how easy it is to prepare!

Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup Shopping List

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup. The combination of turkey sausage, barley, and fresh vegetables not only works well together but also contributes to a balanced meal.

• 1 pound turkey sausage: A leaner alternative to traditional sausage, providing great flavor without excess fat.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds depth and sweetness, forming a flavorful base.
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced: Brings a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1/2 cup pearl barley: Provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture, making the soup hearty.
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth: The liquid gold of the soup, enhancing all other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
• 2 (15 ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes: Contributes acidity and sweetness, balancing the richness of the sausage.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Deepens the tomato flavor, making the soup richer.
• 3 cups kale, roughly chopped: A nutritious addition that wilts beautifully into the soup.

Instructions for Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup

Cooking Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup is a delightful process that requires minimal effort. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, comforting meal waiting for you.

1. In a skillet on medium heat, cook the turkey sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. You’ll want it to turn a nice golden brown, and the aroma will start to fill your kitchen.
2. Once the sausage is cooked through, drain off any excess liquid. This step is crucial to avoid a greasy soup. Place the cooked sausage in your slow cooker.
3. Add the remaining ingredients: diced onion, carrots, pearl barley, chicken broth, Kosher salt, ground black pepper, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to develop beautifully, and the barley will become tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the barley is soft.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the kale. Cover again and cook on high until the kale has wilted and the soup is heated through. This short time on high will keep the kale vibrant and full of nutrients.
6. Once done, serve hot. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the warmth and flavors of this hearty dish.

Recipe Notes about Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup

This Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup is a fantastic meal option. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to three months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal that fills you up!
• Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten the flavors.
• Serving Size: This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup, there are countless delightful ways to enjoy it:

• Crusty Bread: Pair the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast.
• Lunch or Dinner: This soup is versatile enough for both lunch and dinner. It’s great as a quick meal or a comforting dinner option.
• Meal Prep: Make a large batch and portion it out for the week. It heats up wonderfully in the microwave.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy it during winter months as a warming dish or serve it in fall with seasonal vegetables.
• Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers for up to three days or freeze for later enjoyment.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup is a heartwarming dish that truly embodies comfort food. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for any winter evening. I encourage you to try making this soup; it’s not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. Your family will thank you for serving up such a delightful meal!

Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Turkey Sausage with Barley Soup is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Perfect for cold winter nights, this easy weeknight dinner is full of nutritious ingredients that warm you from the inside out. Make it tonight for a meal your family will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 6 hours hrs 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound turkey sausage
• 1 medium onion diced
• 1 cup carrot peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup pearl barley
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 15 ounce cans petite diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 cups kale roughly chopped

Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a skillet on medium heat, cook the turkey sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once cooked through, drain off any excess liquid and place in a slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients, except tomato paste and kale, to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or until the barley is tender. Stir in the tomato paste and kale. Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes or just until the kale has wilted. Serve hot.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the soup for up to three months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Tip 3: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal that fills you up!
• Tip 4: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten the flavors.
• Tip 5: This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.