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There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of Zuppa Toscana that brings comfort to your heart and soul. Maybe it’s the soothing aroma of garlic and sausage simmering together or the richness of creamy broth hugging each bite of tender potato and kale. This Tuscan-inspired soup captures everything you love about homemade cooking warmth, simplicity, and deep flavor that nourishes you on even the chilliest days.
Why You’ll Love This Zuppa Toscana Recipe
This homemade Zuppa Toscana rivals any restaurant version especially the popular Olive Garden favorite but made right in your kitchen with everyday ingredients. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with fresh vegetables and spicy Italian sausage, making it both satisfying and hearty.
You’ll love this recipe because:
- It uses simple, fresh ingredients for an authentic taste.
- The entire soup can be made in under 45 minutes.
- It’s family-friendly (simply use mild sausage for kids).
- It’s perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.
The Best Copycat Zuppa Toscana You’ll Ever Make
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A creamy, comforting Italian Zuppa Toscana with sausage, kale, potatoes, and a rich broth perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian ground sausage
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ white onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 4–5 yellow potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups chopped kale
- Chopped bacon or bacon bits (optional)
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Brown sausage until cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté butter and onion until translucent. Add garlic for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken broth, water, potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in kale, heavy cream, and return sausage to pot. Simmer 5 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with parmesan and bacon.
Notes
Use mild sausage for a family-friendly version. Store leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients for Authentic Zuppa Toscana
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Italian soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Italian ground sausage | 1 pound | Use mild if preferred |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | Adds depth and richness |
| White onion, diced | ½ | Medium size |
| Minced garlic | 1 tablespoon | Freshly minced for best flavor |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | Low-sodium if possible |
| Water | 2 cups | Helps balance the richness |
| Yellow potatoes | 4–5 | Cut into 1-inch cubes |
| Salt | 3 teaspoons | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups | Creates the signature creamy texture |
| Chopped kale | 4 cups | De-stemmed and roughly chopped |
| Chopped bacon or bacon bits | Optional | For topping |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | Optional | For serving |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot, cook the spicy Italian sausage over medium heat for 5–6 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. When cooked through, use a slotted spoon to remove it and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add butter and the diced onion. Cook until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the diced potatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Add Creaminess and Flavor
Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the kale and heavy cream. Return the browned sausage to the pot and mix well. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and crispy bacon bits if desired.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Balance flavors: If you prefer a lighter soup, use half and half instead of heavy cream.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
- For extra spice: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Texture tip: Slightly mash some potatoes in the pot for a thicker, creamier broth.
Variations to Try
- Zuppa Toscana with Spinach: Replace kale with baby spinach for a milder flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Use cauliflower florets instead of potatoes.
- Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana: Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, then quick release before adding kale and cream.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Fat | 29 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Cholesterol | 85 mg |
| Sodium | 1180 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Protein | 16 g |
Frequently Asked Questions About Zuppa Toscana
What is Zuppa Toscana made of?
Zuppa Toscana is a traditional Italian soup made from sausage, potatoes, kale, garlic, and cream, simmered in a savory broth.
Can I make Zuppa Toscana dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute coconut cream or oat milk for the heavy cream to make it dairy-free.
How do I make it less spicy?
Choose mild Italian sausage or mix half mild and half spicy to adjust the heat level.
What goes well with Zuppa Toscana?
Crusty garlic bread, a simple Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this creamy soup.
Conclusion
This creamy homemade Zuppa Toscana brings the heart of Tuscany into your kitchen, blending comfort and sophistication in each spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or cozying up on a winter evening, this recipe guarantees rich, bold flavor that always satisfies. Try it once, and it will quickly become one of your favorite soups to make again and again.