Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage (your preference), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 5 cups chopped greens (kale, collard greens, spinach, or a mix)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans beans (cannellini, kidney, great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prep the greens: Wash and chop the greens into bite-sized pieces. If using kale or collard greens, remove the tough central stems.
2. Brown the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Wilt the greens: Add the chopped greens in batches if needed, allowing each batch to wilt before adding more. Cook just until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Incorporate beans and sauce: Stir in the drained and rinsed beans, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth or water.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the greens are tender and the flavors have melded.
7. Season to taste: Add salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Serve hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or rice for a satisfying and hearty meal.
Tips
Customize it: Experiment with different types of beans, greens, and BBQ sauces. You can even try different sausage flavors like spicy Andouille!
Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added heat.
Add a final touch: Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
