Zuppa Toscana Soup – A Hearty, Flavorful Italian Comfort

If you’re looking for a bowl of warmth and comfort, this Zuppa Toscana Soup is exactly what you need. Inspired by the famous Italian soup, this recipe combines savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s the perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly day or to serve as a satisfying meal for family and friends.

Ready to bring a taste of Italy to your table? Let’s get started!

Annie Graves

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Warm up with this rich and hearty Zuppa Toscana Soup! Featuring Italian sausage, kale, and potatoes in a creamy broth, it's the perfect comforting meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Lunch

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb 450g Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil optional, if needed
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 4 cups 1 quart chicken broth
• 3-4 medium russet potatoes sliced into thin rounds
• 2 cups kale stems removed and leaves chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Substitutions

• Vegan: Use plant-based sausage and coconut milk instead of cream. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and season lightly with salt.

Method

 

Cook the Sausage

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. If your sausage is particularly lean, you might need to add a tablespoon of olive oil to help it brown.
4. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion.
2. Sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Broth and Potatoes

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
2. Add the sliced potatoes to the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Add the Kale and Cream

1. Stir in the chopped kale and cooked sausage.
2. Simmer for 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
4. Let the soup heat through without bringing it to a boil.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.

Serve

1. Ladle the Zuppa Toscana Soup into bowls, and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
3. Enjoy!

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 cup):

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

 

Notes/Advice:

• Additions/Subtractions:
  • For a richer soup, add more cream or a splash of white wine to the broth.
  • Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or celery to the soup for added texture and flavor.
  • This dish is versatile—adjust the ingredients and spices to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Variations:

• Spicy Zuppa Toscana: Use spicy Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
• Zuppa Toscana with Bacon: Add 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled, to the soup along with the sausage for an extra layer of flavor.
• Low-Carb Zuppa Toscana: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb version.

Suggestions:

• Serving Ideas: This soup pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or a classic Caprese salad. It’s also great served with a glass of your favorite Italian red wine.
• Make It Ahead: Zuppa Toscana Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as it sits, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Final Thoughts:

And there you have it—Zuppa Toscana Soup that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal! This dish is a wonderful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine in a warm, satisfying soup. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a starter, this Zuppa Toscana is sure to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, simmer up this delicious soup, and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home. Buon appetito!

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