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Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup

Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup

Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup is a creamy, hearty Italian-inspired soup blending spicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, fresh kale, and a rich broth. This comforting soup delivers bold flavors and a luxurious texture, ideal for warming up on chilly days. Easy to prepare and versatile for adaptations, it’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild), casing removed

Vegetables

  • 4 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Fats

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Seasonings

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Sausage: Remove the Italian sausage from its casing and cook it in a large pot over medium heat until browned and crumbly, releasing flavorful fats that will enrich the soup.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, using the sausage drippings, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant to create the aromatic base of the soup.
  3. Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the sliced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, infusing the broth with hearty flavor.
  4. Incorporate Kale and Cream: Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted. Then stir in the heavy cream to give the soup a creamy and luxurious texture.
  5. Season and Serve: Finish by seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Notes

  • Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
  • Do not overcook kale; add it towards the end to keep its color and nutrients.
  • Simmer the soup gently to meld flavors without breaking down ingredients.
  • Season in layers and adjust seasoning as needed for perfect balance.
  • Slice potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking and texture.
  • Vegetarian option: substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
  • Low carb version: replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
  • Dairy-free alternative: use coconut milk or almond cream instead of heavy cream.
  • For extra heat, increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce.
  • Greens variation: swap kale for spinach or Swiss chard as desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Zuppa Toscana, Italian soup, sausage soup, creamy soup, kale soup, potato soup, comfort food, homemade soup