Description
This Zuppa Toscana recipe is a rich and hearty Italian soup featuring savory Italian sausage, tender diced potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth flavored with garlic and Parmesan cheese. Ideal for cozy dinners, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal that combines rustic ingredients with a creamy, flavorful finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Base
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
Cream and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Remove excess fat if needed to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage and sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3 minutes, releasing fragrant flavors.
- Add liquids and potatoes: Stir in the chicken broth, water, diced potatoes, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the soup: After boiling, reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors meld together.
- Add greens: Incorporate the chopped kale or spinach into the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the greens have wilted but remain vibrant and tender.
- Finish with cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Heat through gently without boiling to ensure a creamy texture without curdling. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally serve with crusty bread for dipping and extra comfort.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- Turkey sausage can be used instead of pork sausage for a leaner protein option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and should be reheated gently over low heat to maintain texture and flavor.
