Zuppa Toscana is the ultimate comfort food, a soup that’s both rich and nourishing. Known for its satisfying blend of flavors, this Italian classic combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, fresh kale, and a creamy broth. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to curl up on the couch with a warm bowl on a chilly evening or serve it at a family gathering where everyone can enjoy its rustic, hearty goodness.
The key to this soup is its broth. It starts with a flavorful base made from chicken stock, heavy cream, and garlic. The creaminess from the heavy cream makes the soup feel indulgent, but it’s balanced with a bit of heat from crushed red pepper flakes, giving it a subtle kick that keeps things interesting. This combination of creamy and spicy is what makes Zuppa Toscana so comforting and satisfying.
The potatoes are sliced thin and simmered until they’re tender, soaking up all the savory flavors of the broth. They provide the heartiness that makes this soup feel like a meal on its own. Fresh kale is added at the end, wilting into the soup to give it a burst of color and a fresh, earthy flavor. It contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cream and sausage, adding a bit of balance to the dish.
The sausage, typically a mild Italian variety, brings savory, juicy flavors to the soup. It’s usually crumbled and browned before being added to the broth, which infuses the soup with deep, flavorful meatiness.
Zuppa Toscana is a wonderfully versatile dish. You can easily adjust it based on your dietary preferences, using turkey sausage instead of pork, or substituting the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. It’s also a great make-ahead dish. The flavors only get better after a day or two in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying it on your own, Zuppa Toscana is a warm, satisfying dish that brings comfort and joy in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage mild or spicy, as preferred
- 4 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 3 cups potatoes sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream can substitute with half-and-half
- 2 cups kale chopped, removes stems
- 1 onion large, diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- to taste Salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion becomes translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the sliced potatoes and cook until they are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked sausage back into the pot.
- Stir in the chopped kale and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Finally, add the heavy cream and stir well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
I wasn’t sure about the kale at first, but it really adds to the soup. My kids even ate it without complaining! Who knew greens could be tasty? 4 stars!
Nothing like a good soup in winter. Used turkey sausage instead – still turned out delish!
This recipe is a lifesaver! Super easy and soooo delicious. My family loved it!
I didn’t have kale, used spinach instead. Is that ok? Still good!
I dunno, seems kinda bland. Needs more spices or something.
I actually think it’s pretty good as is! But yeah, a little sprinkle of red pepper flakes could do wonders. Just my opinion!
Tastes good, but why so much cream? The kale should shine!
Okay soup! It was just alright, nothing special. I don’t know if I’ll make it again. 3 stars.
I totally get what you’re saying! I found it kinda bland too. Maybe try adding some spices next time?
Why use broth when you can just use water? I think that’s silly… But it turned out good, I guess.
This soup is absolutely amazing! I love the creamy texture. Five stars!
Made this for dinner, but was too salty! I followed the recipe but maybe I added too much sausage. 2 stars. 😕
I think adding too much sausage could definitely make it salty! Maybe try using low sodium broth next time to balance it out. Don’t give up! 😊
Yum! I added some red pepper flakes for a kick! 🔥
Red pepper flakes sound great! I’m definitely trying that next time. 🌶️
I dunno, man. Sounds spicy for a soup, but whatever floats your boat! 🤷♂️
Zuppa Toscana? More like Zuppa TOXIC! Hated it.
Yum! Love it! My husband said it’s the best thing i’ve made in ages. I’ll be making it again for sure! 😊
Yummy! What bread goes with this?
I tried making this but my sausage burnt. It didn’t taste good at all. Maybe I did it wrong?
Sorry to hear that! Maybe try cooking the sausage on a lower heat next time? It can burn fast if it’s too high. Don’t give up!
I think you mighta left it cooking too long. Keep an eye on it next time! The rest of the soup sounds tasty though.
This soup is AMAZING! So hearty and flavorful. My family loves it! Definitely a 5 from me!
I’m glad you loved it! Zuppa Toscana is a family favorite at our house too. It’s so comforting in the winter!
Isn’t this soup just like Olive Garden’s? I can’t stop eating it!
I dunno, I’ve been to Olive Garden and this seems different to me. But I’m curious to try it!
Totally! I can’t get enough of this soup. It’s like a hug in a bowl!