This Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup is a warm and hearty dish that you will love! With savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy goodness, it packs a punch of flavors.
You’ll want to keep this soup on hand for chilly nights; it’s simple to make! I enjoy serving it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I usually go for mild Italian sausage, but feel free to use spicy if you like heat. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based sausage or even mushrooms for the meatiness!
Kale: Kale adds great texture and nutrition, but you can swap it for spinach if you prefer a milder flavor. I often use Swiss chard too since it cooks perfectly in soups.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes work well, but you can substitute with Yukon gold for creaminess or even sweet potatoes for a different twist. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
Heavy Cream: To lighten it up, consider using half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. I’ve even had success using plain yogurt, just stir it in after removing the soup from heat!
How Do I Get the Sausage Just Right?
Cooking the sausage properly is key for flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium heat to allow the sausage to brown nicely without burning. This takes about 6-8 minutes.
- Break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks; this ensures it’s evenly browned and mixes well into the soup.
- Don’t rush this step—it adds depth to the overall flavor of the soup!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Potatoes?
Getting the potatoes tender but not mushy can be tricky. Follow these tips:
- Cut potatoes into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate—about a half-inch works well.
- Add them after the broth is boiling, and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes, checking with a fork for doneness.
- Remove from heat as soon as they are tender to avoid overcooking!
Enjoy making your Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup! It’s a delicious way to warm up any day.
Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3-4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup kale, chopped (can substitute with spinach)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 45 minutes to enjoy a delicious bowl of Zuppa Toscana Soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it until browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot with the leftover sausage drippings, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing!
3. Add Broth and Potatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Then, add the peeled and chopped potatoes to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, which takes about 10-15 minutes.
4. Combine Sausage and Tomatoes:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the browned sausage. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Add Cream and Kale:
Slowly add the heavy cream and the chopped kale to the pot. Cook until the kale is wilted, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season and Serve:
Season your soup with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re looking for some extra heat. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as you like. Serve hot, and feel free to top it with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy with some crusty bread on the side!
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Ingredients for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen kale! Just add it directly to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. For the sausage, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge for even cooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for about 2-3 months!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works great! You could also use water with added flavor, though it won’t be as rich.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or use mushrooms for added texture. Also, make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version!
