Name: Zuppa Toscana: 7 Reasons to Love This Creamy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage; 4 cups russet potatoes, sliced; 3 cups kale, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup half and half; 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Zuppa Toscana is a rich, comforting soup made with spicy Italian sausage, creamy potatoes, fresh kale, crispy bacon, and a silky broth. This Olive Garden-inspired recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or cozy weekend lunch. The blend of flavors creates a delightful experience that warms your soul, making it a favorite in many households.

Why You’ll Love This Zuppa Toscana

This Zuppa Toscana recipe offers numerous benefits that will make it your go-to comfort food. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s a hearty meal packed with protein from the Italian sausage and nutrients from the kale, making it a well-rounded dish. Third, the creamy texture of the broth will satisfy your cravings for something rich and delicious. Additionally, this soup is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, it’s perfect for serving a crowd, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients for Zuppa Toscana

Gather these items:

1 pound Italian sausage
4 cups russet potatoes, sliced
3 cups kale, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup half and half
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Zuppa Toscana Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Transfer to a plate, reserving a bit of fat in the pot.
Step 2: Add the diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes.
Step 4: Return the sausage to the pot along with chopped kale. Simmer for 5 more minutes until the kale is wilted.
Step 5: Lower the heat and stir in the half and half. Warm through for 3–4 minutes without boiling.
Step 6: Crumble the cooked bacon over the soup. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 7: Serve hot with crusty bread or salad.

Pro Tips for the Best Zuppa Toscana

Keep these in mind:

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.

Best Ways to Serve Zuppa Toscana

There are many ways to enjoy this Zuppa Toscana. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Another great option is to offer a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This creamy Tuscan soup is also delicious when served in bread bowls, creating a fun and interactive dining experience.

How to Store and Reheat Zuppa Toscana

Store leftover Zuppa Toscana in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months; just be sure to leave out the cream and add it when reheating for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zuppa Toscana

What’s the secret to perfect Zuppa Toscana?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients, especially the Italian sausage and fresh kale. Also, simmer the soup long enough for the flavors to meld beautifully. This technique ensures a balanced and delicious taste, making your Zuppa Toscana soup a hit.

Can I make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently when ready to serve. This is a great option for meal prep or when entertaining guests.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Zuppa Toscana?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the kale, as it can become mushy. Also, be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream, as this can cause it to curdle. Following the cooking instructions closely will lead to a perfect creamy Tuscan soup.

Variations of Zuppa Toscana You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, there are several Zuppa Toscana variations you can try. For a healthier twist, substitute potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb option. You can also add spinach for a different leafy green experience. Another idea is to use turkey sausage instead of pork to make it lighter. Experimenting with different ingredients will keep your Zuppa Toscana fresh and exciting.

Zuppa Toscana: 7 Reasons to Love This Creamy Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Zuppa Toscana is a rich, comforting soup made with spicy Italian sausage, creamy potatoes, fresh kale, crispy bacon, and a silky broth. This Olive Garden-inspired recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or cozy weekend lunch.

Instructions

In a large Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Transfer to a plate, reserving a bit of fat in the pot.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes.
Return the sausage to the pot along with chopped kale. Simmer for 5 more minutes until the kale is wilted.
Lower the heat and stir in the half and half. Warm through for 3–4 minutes without boiling.
Crumble the cooked bacon over the soup. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve hot with crusty bread or salad.