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–+ servings
Zuppa Toscana
Zuppa Toscana is a hearty, comforting soup that originated in Tuscany, Italy, and has been popularized by restaurants like Olive Garden. Known for its rich, creamy broth and savory blend of Italian sausage, potatoes, and kale, it’s a perfect example of rustic Italian cooking. This version balances creamy and spicy flavors with a nourishing combination of vegetables and meat, making it a satisfying meal on its own. A staple during cooler months, it's beloved for its depth of flavor and easy preparation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 russet potatoes (cubed (with or without skin))
  • 1 white onion (chopped)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage
  • 3 strips bacon
  • 32 oz chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 bunch kale (chopped, remove stems)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • Crushed red pepper (to taste)
  • 1 to 1½ cups heavy cream
  • Water (as needed for consistency)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

  • Brown Italian sausage in a medium-heated pot.
  • Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Bacon

  • Add chopped bacon to the pot. Cook until golden brown.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

  • Add chopped onions. Cook until translucent.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Deglaze

  • Add minced garlic.
  • Add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping any bits from the bottom.

Step 5: Add Potatoes

  • Stir in cubed potatoes.

Step 6: Add Broth and Water

  • Pour in remaining chicken broth.
  • Add enough water to just cover the potatoes.

Step 7: Simmer

  • Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Step 8: Add Cream and Sausage

  • Stir in heavy cream and return sausage to the pot.

Step 9: Add Kale

  • Stir in chopped kale.
  • Turn off heat and let sit for a few minutes until kale is tender.

Tips

  • Substitute hot Italian sausage for extra heat.
  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
  • Add extra bacon for a smokier flavor.
  • Use spinach instead of kale if preferred.
  • Add Parmesan cheese at the end for richness.
  • Make it gluten-free automatically—no pasta or flour added.
  • Add crushed red pepper to taste for spice control.
  • Use turkey sausage for a leaner version.
  • Replace part of the potatoes with cauliflower for lower carbs.
  • Make ahead: soup reheats well but add kale fresh for best texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 18gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 1150mgPotassium: 870mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 4100IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 110mgIron: 2.2mg
Keyword comfort food, cozy meals, creamy, creamy soup, hearty soup, italian soup, potatos, rustic, sausage potato soup, winter
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