Last Updated on October 11, 2025 by Chef Josie
Sometimes the most unexpected recipes turn out to be the most delicious, and that’s exactly the case with Swamp Soup, the viral TikTok sensation that took comfort food lovers by storm. Despite its quirky name, this vibrant and hearty soup is anything but murky. Packed with smoked sausage, greens, beans, and corn, it’s a deeply flavorful Southern-inspired dish that’s perfect for chilly nights.
If you love Soup Recipes that are simple, satisfying, and full of wholesome ingredients, this stovetop version of Swamp Soup will quickly become a favorite in your fall and winter meal rotation. It’s nutritious, budget-friendly, and ready in about 45 minutes.
Click to Access the Table of Contents:
Table of Contents
Swamp Soup (Viral TikTok Recipe)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty, smoky, Southern-inspired soup filled with sausage, greens, beans, and corn. This viral TikTok favorite is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
14 oz smoked sausage, sliced
-
1 small onion, diced
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
-
1 can (15 oz) white or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
-
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
-
4 cups chopped collard greens or kale
-
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
-
1 tsp smoked paprika
-
1 tsp dried thyme
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown sausage for 4–5 minutes; remove and set aside.
-
Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
-
Stir in tomatoes, beans, corn, broth, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
-
Add greens and sausage. Simmer 25–30 minutes until greens are tender.
-
Adjust seasoning, then serve hot with cornbread or rice.
Notes
Mash some beans for a thicker texture.
Use vegan sausage for a plant-based version.
Add potatoes or more beans for a heartier soup.
Store up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months frozen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 370 kcal per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and flavorful: A mix of sausage, greens, and beans for a full, balanced meal.
- Quick and easy: One pot and minimal prep time.
- Perfect cold-weather comfort: A standout among Fall Soup Recipes and Winter Soup Recipes.
- TikTok viral favorite: Trendy, fun, and guaranteed to impress.
- Customizable: Adjust spice level, vegetables, and protein to suit your taste.
Ingredient Breakdown
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
14 ounces smoked sausage, sliced – Adds a savory, smoky base.
1 small onion, diced – Enhances flavor depth.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Brings rich, aromatic flavor.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and depth.
1 can (15 oz) white beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed – Adds texture and protein.
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) – Sweet contrast to smoky sausage.
4 cups chopped collard greens or kale – The “swampy” element that makes this soup hearty and nutritious.
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Forms the savory soup base.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds warmth and herbal balance.
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Substitutions
- Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegan version.
- Swap collard greens for spinach or mustard greens.
- Add more beans or diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the sausage
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside. - Sauté aromatics
In the same pot, add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Build the base
Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, corn, broth, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer. - Add greens and simmer
Add collard greens or kale and return the sausage to the pot. Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the greens are tender and flavors meld together. - Taste and serve
Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes and Top Tips
- For thicker soup, mash some of the beans or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Use quality smoked sausage for the best flavor.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Make it vegetarian by skipping sausage and using smoked paprika for depth.
- This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Serve with: Buttermilk cornbread, biscuits, or rice.
- Add protein: White beans, tofu, or shredded chicken can increase heartiness.
- Vegetarian version: Use vegan sausage and vegetable broth.
- Flavor twist: Add a squeeze of lemon before serving for brightness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding broth if the soup thickens too much.
Why You’ll Make It Again
Swamp Soup proves that simple, down-home cooking can still feel exciting. Smoky, savory, and packed with vegetables, it’s the kind of meal that feeds both the body and soul. Whether you found it on TikTok or just love discovering new Soup Recipes, this one deserves a permanent place in your rotation.
FAQs
Why is it called Swamp Soup?
The mix of greens gives the soup a “swampy” appearance, but the flavor is bold, smoky, and delicious.
Can I use canned greens?
Yes, though fresh or frozen collard greens provide better texture and flavor.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Combine all ingredients except sausage and greens, cook on Low for 6 hours, then stir in sautéed sausage and greens at the end.
For more delicious recipes follow me on :
Medium: @RecipesByJosie
Instagram: @RecipesByJosie
Pinterest: @RecipesByJosie