Zuppa Toscana Soup is a warm and cozy dish filled with tasty sausage, fresh kale, and hearty potatoes. It has a creamy broth that makes every spoonful feel like a hug!
I love making this soup on chilly nights, as it warms me right up. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, and the smell will make everyone gather in the kitchen! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the heart of the soup! You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works great as a substitute.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for heartiness and texture. If you want a different texture, try Yukon Gold potatoes! They are creamy and hold their shape well.
Kale: Fresh kale adds a lovely green touch and nutrition. If you can’t find kale, spinach is a nice substitute, but add it towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup a creamy texture. If you’d like a healthier option, half-and-half or whole milk can work in a pinch, though the creaminess will be less intense.
Bacon: Adds flavor and crunch. If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, try smoked tempeh or skip it altogether for a lighter broth.
How Do I Get the Bacon Just Right?
Crispy bacon adds texture and flavor to your Zuppa Toscana, so pay attention to the cooking process. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start with a cold pan. Place the chopped bacon in the pot and turn the heat to medium. This helps the fat render slowly.
- Cook until you see the bacon getting crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally so it cooks evenly.
- Once crisp, transfer it to a paper towel to drain excess grease. Leaving some fat in the pot keeps everything flavorful!
How to Make Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced or cubed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- Olive oil or butter, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Zuppa Toscana Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy this hearty meal in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon pieces and place them on a paper towel to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the pot for extra flavor!
2. Brown the Sausage:
Add the Italian sausage to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
If necessary, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the pot. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for just 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
4. Add the Broth and Potatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the sliced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer and Cook:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
6. Combine Everything:
When the potatoes are ready, return the cooked sausage and bacon to the pot. Stir in the chopped kale and simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, just until the kale wilts.
7. Add Cream and Season:
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Ensure the soup heats thoroughly but do not boil it. Season with crushed red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot, and if you like, top with extra cracked black pepper or grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch. Enjoy your warm and hearty bowl of Zuppa Toscana Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chopped kale and even frozen potatoes! Just add them directly into the pot without thawing, and adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring the potatoes are tender before serving.
How Do I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make Zuppa Toscana dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also add a little extra broth for liquid without compromising the flavor!
Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder soup, simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes. To kick up the heat, add more flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste during cooking. You can always taste and adjust as you go!
