Zuppa Toscana Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is great for beginners.
• Rich and Creamy – The combination of heavy cream and broth creates a deliciously smooth texture.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with sausage, potatoes, and kale, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or make it dairy-free with simple modifications.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This soup stores and reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage
• Olive oil
• Small onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken broth
• Water
• Russet potatoes, sliced thin
• Kale, chopped
• Heavy cream
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then stir in the sliced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped kale. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the kale softens.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup heat through for another 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, optionally garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or additional red pepper flakes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Make it Spicier: Use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or white beans.
• Add More Veggies: Try adding carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra texture.
• Lighter Version: Use turkey sausage and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw first. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed.

FAQs

How do I make this soup thicker?

You can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

Can I use spinach instead of kale?

Yes! Spinach is a great substitute and will cook faster than kale.

What type of sausage is best for Zuppa Toscana?

Mild or spicy Italian sausage works best, depending on your preference.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients except the kale and cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in kale and cream 30 minutes before serving.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a slightly different flavor but still work well.

How can I reduce the fat in this recipe?

Use turkey sausage, low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, and drain excess fat from the sausage.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your sausage and broth are gluten-free.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Why is my soup too thick after reheating?

The potatoes absorb liquid over time. Add more broth or cream when reheating to restore the consistency.

Can I add cheese to this soup?

Yes! Parmesan or Pecorino Romano sprinkled on top adds a great finishing touch.

Conclusion

Zuppa Toscana is the perfect balance of creamy, hearty, and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this soup is sure to be a hit. Try different variations, make it ahead, and enjoy every warm, satisfying spoonful!