Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and cozy meal, this Zuppa Toscana hits all the right notes. It’s made with simple ingredients and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of spicy sausage, creamy broth, and vibrant greens creates a balance of textures and flavors that’s both comforting and bold. Plus, it’s easy to customize and even easier to love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
russet potatoes, thinly sliced or diced
yellow onion, chopped
garlic, minced
chicken broth
heavy cream
kale, chopped
olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in sliced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in chopped kale and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and simmer for 2–3 more minutes to warm through. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings and takes just 20 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
- Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
- Vegetarian version: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
- Add bacon: Fry a few slices of chopped bacon with the sausage for extra richness.
- More veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Low-carb option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir well before serving. Avoid boiling to preserve the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Just reheat gently before serving.
What type of sausage is best for this recipe?
Spicy Italian sausage adds the most flavor, but mild works well too depending on your preference.
Can I freeze this soup?
It can be frozen, but the texture of the potatoes and cream may change slightly. Freeze without the cream and add it when reheating if preferred.
What can I use instead of kale?
Spinach or Swiss chard are good alternatives that wilt quickly and still provide great texture.
How do I make it less spicy?
Use mild sausage and skip the red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, just slice and heat it in the pot before adding the rest of the ingredients.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon gold or red potatoes also work well and hold their shape better.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.
How can I thicken the soup?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes into the broth or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.
Can I add cheese to the soup?
Absolutely. Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a delicious salty finish to each bowl.
Conclusion
With its rich, creamy broth and bold flavors, this 20 Minute Zuppa Toscana Soup is a deliciously quick way to enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
Print20 Minute Zuppa Toscana Soup
This 20 Minute Zuppa Toscana Soup is a hearty, creamy, and comforting Italian-inspired dish packed with spicy sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a rich, flavorful broth—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3–4 cups russet potatoes, thinly sliced or diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chopped kale
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in sliced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Add chopped kale and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and simmer for 2–3 more minutes to warm through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use half-and-half or milk instead of cream for a lighter option.
- Swap in spinach or Swiss chard if kale isn’t available.
- For extra depth, cook chopped bacon with the sausage.
- For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
- To thicken the soup, mash a few cooked potatoes into the broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
