This Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup is a warm bowl of goodness! With creamy broth, hearty potatoes, and tasty sausage, it’s perfect for chilly days. You’ll want seconds, trust me!
What I love is how quick it comes together. Just simmer everything, and dinner is ready! Pair it with crusty bread, and you’ll feel like you’re in a cozy Italian kitchen! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the heart of the soup. You can use mild or spicy, based on your preference. If you want a lighter version, turkey sausage or even chicken sausage works great.
Chicken Broth: For a rich flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth. If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute, just keep in mind it will change the flavor a bit.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for a creamy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Kale or Spinach: Kale holds up well in cooking, but if you don’t have it, fresh spinach is a quick-cooking substitute. Just throw it in toward the end, as it wilts fast!
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice smoky flavor. If you’re looking to make it healthier, try turkey bacon or skip it altogether. You can add a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
How Do You Make Sure Your Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Finding that sweet spot where potatoes are tender but not mushy is crucial in this soup. Here are the steps:
- Slice your potatoes thinly, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure even cooking.
- Bring the broth to a gentle boil after adding the potatoes. This helps them cook without falling apart.
- Simmer on low heat, checking them after 10 minutes. You want a fork to slide in easily but still have a bit of firmness.
Overcooked potatoes can turn grainy, so keep an eye on them during that simmer time and you’ll have a great base for your soup!
Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil (if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Zuppa Toscana soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, but leave the flavorful bacon fat in the pot. If there’s not enough fat, drizzle in a splash of olive oil.
2. Brown the Sausage:
Next, add the Italian sausage (casings removed) to the pot. Cook it over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it and set it aside with the bacon.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth, followed by the thinly sliced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
5. Mix in the Greens:
Return the cooked sausage and bacon to the pot. Stir in your chopped kale or spinach and the optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the greens are wilted and bright!
6. Stir in the Cream:
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream. Make sure not to let it boil at this point. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, perhaps with some crusty bread on the side. Feel free to top it with a little extra bacon or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy your creamy, comforting soup!
This Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Buon Appetito!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative. Just be sure to season it well with Italian herbs and spices to mimic the flavor of traditional Italian sausage.
How Can I Keep This Soup From Becoming Too Thick?
If your soup thickens too much during cooking, simply add more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually while warming the soup to avoid making it too watery.
Can I Freeze Leftover Zuppa Toscana?
Yes, you can freeze it! Store the cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth or cream since freezing can change the texture slightly.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. You can also use a mixture of milk and a little flour to achieve a creamy texture.
