Name: Zuppa Toscana Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed); 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4–5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, sliced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cups fresh kale, chopped; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

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Zuppa Toscana Soup is a rich, comforting Italian-inspired soup made with savory sausage, tender potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth. Popularized by Italian-American kitchens, it’s a perfect balance of hearty flavors and silky texture, making it an ideal meal for chilly days or cozy nights at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
Ready in under an hour for a quick weeknight dinner.
Customizable for different diets and spice levels.
Even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Ingredients

Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
Olive oil (if needed)
Onion
Garlic
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Fresh kale
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Directions

In a large pot, cook Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add sliced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes.
Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted.
Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.
Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 and takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus 30 minutes of cooking.

Variations

Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
Swap kale for spinach or Swiss chard.
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a different texture.
Add crispy beef for extra smoky flavor.
Stir in cannellini beans for added protein and heartiness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If freezing, leave out the cream and add it after thawing and reheating to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well, but add the cream right before serving for the best texture.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes give a classic texture, but Yukon golds hold their shape well.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, use spicy Italian sausage or add extra crushed red pepper flakes.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but omit the cream before freezing and add it after reheating.

How do I thicken the broth?

Mash a few potato slices in the pot to naturally thicken the soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?

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

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, just slice or crumble it and heat it with the onions.

Can I substitute kale?

Yes, spinach, collard greens, or Swiss chard work well.

Does it taste like the restaurant version?

Yes, this homemade version is rich, flavorful, and even fresher.

Conclusion

Zuppa Toscana Soup is a creamy, savory, and hearty bowl of comfort that’s easy to make at home. With flavorful sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh greens, it’s a dish that warms you from the inside out and is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

Jane