Zuppa Toscana is a hearty Italian soup that warms you right up! It’s made with fresh kale, tasty sausage, potatoes, and a splash of cream that brings it all together.
This soup is my go-to for chilly nights. You can cozy up with a bowl and feel all the love. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup! You can use mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too.
Potassee: Russet potatoes give a nice texture, but you can substitute Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you have those on hand. They hold up well in soups too!
Kale: Fresh kale adds color and nutrition. If you can’t find kale, spinach is a great substitute—it cooks faster, so be sure to add it later in the cooking process.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. I sometimes replace a part of the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free twist!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
The key to a rich, creamy Zuppa Toscana is all in how you combine the ingredients. Here are some tips:
- Cook the sausage until it’s fully browned to enhance flavor.
- Use the drippings left in the pot to sauté the onions; this adds depth to the soup.
- When you add the heavy cream, make sure your soup is on low heat. This avoids curdling or separation.
- Let the soup simmer briefly to meld the flavors but avoid boiling after adding cream.
Keep these steps in mind, and you’ll have a deliciously creamy soup each time!
How to Make Zuppa Toscana
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 4-5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 4-5 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
For Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Zuppa Toscana takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 45 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, while keeping the delicious drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion into the pot with the sausage drippings. Sauté it for about 5 minutes until it’s translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until you can smell the wonderful aroma.
3. Prepare the Soup Base:
Add the potato chunks to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
4. Add Sausage and Kale:
Once the potatoes are tender, stir the cooked sausage back into the pot. Then, add the chopped kale and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the kale to wilt perfectly.
5. Finish with Cream:
Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Make sure to heat it through, but avoid boiling at this stage as you want to keep the cream smooth.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, generously topped with crumbled bacon, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley if you like. Pair it with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal!
Enjoy your delicious Zuppa Toscana!
This creamy, flavorful soup balances smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a rich broth. The garnishes add a delightful finishing touch to this classic Tuscan delight.
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can use turkey or chicken sausage for a healthier option. Feel free to experiment with different flavors like chorizo for a bit of spice!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want a milder soup, simply leave out the red pepper flakes or decrease the amount. For extra heat, you can add more red pepper flakes or throw in a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and bacon, use vegetable broth, and consider adding extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers. You can also use lentils for added protein.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much.