Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Zuppa Toscana Soup is a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines the delicious flavors of Italian sausage, creamy potatoes, and fresh kale into a satisfying, comforting meal. The creamy broth is rich and full of flavor, while the tender vegetables and hearty sausage bring a perfect balance of texture. It’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep, whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups water
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups kale, chopped (remove stems)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. - Add Liquids and Potatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the sliced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Add the Sausage Back:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Season the soup with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. - Add the Kale:
Stir the chopped kale into the soup and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the kale softens. - Finish with Cream:
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. - Serve:
Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Rest time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by using mild Italian sausage or skipping the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder version.
- Greens: While kale is traditional, you can substitute it with spinach, Swiss chard, or other leafy greens.
- Lightened Up Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free alternative to make a lighter version of this soup.
- Add More Veggies: You can add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more variety in your soup.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or any other variety of sausage you prefer. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still work well in the soup.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting overnight in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
3. Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop and add a little extra broth or cream to adjust the consistency.
4. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can use plant-based sausage or simply omit the sausage for a vegetarian version. Add some extra vegetables or beans for protein.
5. Can I use a slow cooker for this soup?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the liquids. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream and kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. How do I make the soup spicier?
For more spice, you can add extra crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or use a spicier sausage like hot Italian sausage.
7. What can I serve with Zuppa Toscana?
Serve this soup with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
8. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a dairy-free version of the soup.
9. How do I know when the potatoes are tender?
The potatoes are tender when they can easily be pierced with a fork. This typically takes about 10-15 minutes of simmering, depending on the thickness of the slices.
10. Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version, or use beef broth for a richer flavor.
Conclusion
Zuppa Toscana Soup is a perfect comfort food that combines savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a rich, creamy broth. It’s easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping. Whether served as a main dish or with a side of crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!
Zuppa Toscana Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Zuppa Toscana Soup is a creamy and comforting Italian-inspired soup made with Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale. Its rich broth and flavorful ingredients make it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups water
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups kale, chopped (remove stems)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Liquids and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in sliced potatoes, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Add the Sausage Back: Return the sausage to the pot. Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Add the Kale: Stir in the chopped kale and simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale softens.
Finish with Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use plant-based sausage or extra vegetables.
Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for more heat.
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
