This Zuppa Toscana, meaning "Tuscan Soup," is a creamy, hearty, and flavorful dish inspired by the iconic Olive Garden favorite. Packed with tender potatoes, savory sausage, fresh kale, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The best part? You can make it easily at home with this simple recipe.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
For the Soup:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced or cubed
- 2 cups fresh kale, chopped (stems removed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled (for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add the Kale and Cream
- Stir in the chopped kale and cooked sausage. Let the soup simmer for 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with crumbled bacon and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with warm, crusty bread or breadsticks on the side.
Tips for Perfect Zuppa Toscana
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh kale and high-quality sausage make all the difference.
- Customize the Potatoes: Thinly slice potatoes for a classic look, or cube them for a chunkier soup.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for the heavy cream to make it dairy-free.
Why You’ll Love It
This Zuppa Toscana Soup is:
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of sausage, potatoes, and cream is indulgently satisfying.
- Full of Flavor: From the savory sausage to the earthy kale and creamy broth, every bite is packed with taste.
- Comforting: Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a bowl of comfort food.
- Simple to Make: Minimal ingredients and easy preparation make this a go-to recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delicious soup with:
- Crusty Artisan Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Classic Italian-style accompaniment.
Conclusion
This Zuppa Toscana Soup is a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors that transport you straight to Italy. It’s an ideal dish for family dinners, gatherings, or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal.