This Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup is warm and filled with tasty ingredients like sausage, potatoes, and kale. It’s creamy and oh-so-comforting for chilly days!
Whenever I make it, my kitchen smells amazing! I love how quickly it comes together. Grab a slice of bread, and you’re all set for a cozy meal! 🍞😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star ingredient that brings flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. You could also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist!
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for their creamy texture. However, if you want something different, Yukon Gold potatoes are a fantastic substitute, or you can try sweet potatoes for added sweetness.
Kale: Fresh kale is perfect for this recipe. If kale isn’t available, spinach can be a quick substitute and softens faster. Just add it in the last 2 minutes of cooking!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives this soup its richness. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind it’ll alter the flavor slightly.
Bacon: While optional, bacon adds a delicious crunch. If you’re skipping meat, consider crispy chickpeas for some texture and flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has the Right Texture?
To get that perfect creamy soup texture, pay attention to the cooking steps.
- Cook the sausage until nicely browned, which adds depth of flavor.
- Be sure to slice the potatoes thinly; this helps them cook through evenly and quickly.
- After adding the kale, let it cook just long enough to become tender without losing its vibrant color.
- Finally, when you stir in the cream, keep the heat low. This prevents the cream from curdling and keeps your soup smooth.
Following these steps will help you achieve a delicious, creamy Zuppa Toscana every time!
Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 4-5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- 4-6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that warms you up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small crumbles. Keep cooking until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat, feel free to drain some off.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Stir everything together and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds flavor for your soup!
3. Mix in Potatoes and Broth:
Now it’s time to add the sliced potatoes! Toss them into the pot along with the chicken broth and water. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Kale:
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the chopped kale. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes, just until the kale wilts and softens, adding a nice green color and nutrition to your soup.
5. Create a Creamy Finish:
Lower the heat again and pour in the heavy cream. Stir it in gently and heat through, but be careful not to let it boil after adding the cream. Season the soup to taste with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, and if you’d like, garnish each bowl with pieces of crispy bacon. Enjoy this hearty soup that combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and nutritious kale, making it a perfect meal for any day!
Can I Use Something Other Than Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage can work just as well. Vegetarian or vegan sausage options are also great for a meat-free version!
What If I Don’t Have Kale?
No problem! If kale isn’t available, freshly chopped spinach is a quick substitute. Just add it in the last couple of minutes of cooking since it wilts faster than kale.
How Can I Store Leftover Zuppa Toscana?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Zuppa Toscana! Allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
