Zuppa Toscana Recipe
Zuppa Toscana is a classic Italian-inspired soup featuring savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, hearty kale, and a creamy broth. This comforting and flavorful soup balances spicy and mild elements with a rich, velvety texture, making it perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a satisfying meal in a bowl.
- Author: Elias
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 4 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold, diced)
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bunch kale (chopped, about 4 cups)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Potatoes in Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Kale and Spices: Add the chopped kale and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Finish with Cream: Lower the heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to warm through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot in bowls with crusty bread on the side if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter soup, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness or omit completely for a milder flavor.
- Kale can be substituted with spinach or Swiss chard if desired.
- Use turkey sausage as a leaner alternative to traditional Italian sausage.
- If the soup is too thick, add additional chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Zuppa Toscana, Italian soup, sausage soup, kale soup, creamy potato soup, hearty soup, comforting meal