Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 6 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: 3 days in the refrigerator.Quick Answer
This hearty Zuppa Toscana is a delightful Tuscan soup that combines Italian sausage, potatoes, and kale in a creamy broth, perfect for cozy gatherings.As the crisp autumn air settles into New York City, I find myself craving hearty soups that warm not just my body but also my soul. Enter Zuppa Toscana, a delightful Tuscan soup that's been a comforting staple in my kitchen, especially as we gear up for the cozy gatherings of Thanksgiving and Christmas. This savory soup combines flavorful ingredients that reflect the heart of Italian cuisine, making it the perfect dish to share with family and friends during the festive season.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory flavors that warm you up on chilly days.
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
- Customizable with various greens and spices to suit your taste.
- Comfort food that brings family and friends together around the table.
- Leftovers taste even better, making it a great option for meal prep.
Ingredients
To create a batch of this warming Zuppa Toscana, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on your preference)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 large russet potatoes, sliced thinly (Yukon Gold potatoes work well, too)
- 2 cups kale, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, for a bit of heat (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How to Make Zuppa Toscana (Step-by-Step)
Let me guide you through the process of making this savory soup step by step.
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Using a wooden spoon, break it apart as it cooks. The aroma of the sausage will fill your kitchen - it's heavenly! Cook until it's nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent, stirring occasionally. You'll know it's time to move to the next step when the kitchen smells invitingly savory.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Then, add the thinly sliced potatoes. Let this simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
Step 4: Stir in the Kale
Once the potatoes are ready, stir in the chopped kale and let it wilt, which only takes a couple of minutes. The vibrant green of the kale against the creamy broth is visually appealing and signals you're close to enjoying a comforting bowl of soup.
Step 5: Finish with Cream
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Let it warm through for a few more minutes, ensuring that it's perfectly creamy and comforting.
Step 6: Serve with Parmesan
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. I find that a little sprinkle adds the perfect finishing touch, elevating the entire dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Be cautious not to overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but still have a slight bite to them for great texture.
- Skipping the Aromatics: Don't rush the browning of the sausage and the sautéing of the onions and garlic. This step is crucial for developing rich flavors.
- Adding the Cream Too Early: Make sure to add the cream at the end to keep it lush and prevent curdling from prolonged heat.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Consider using a high-quality chicken broth for a more robust flavor. Homemade broth is even better if you have it on hand.
- If you're making this for a larger gathering, consider doubling the batch; it freezes well for future cozy nights.
- Experiment with different greens. If kale isn't your favorite, Swiss chard or spinach can be used as substitutes.
Variations
- Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional aroma.
How to Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with crusty bread or a warm roll for dipping.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup up to the point of adding cream, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Storage: In the refrigerator, it can be stored for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding the cream just before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup before adding the cream; thaw and reheat before incorporating the cream.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through countless iterations of this recipe, I've found that the quality of the ingredients makes a significant difference in the end result. Using fresh herbs and high-quality sausage truly elevates the flavor. Furthermore, this soup is a reminder that simple ingredients can create something profoundly comforting - perfect for those chilly autumn evenings and festive celebrations ahead.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 20g protein · 35g carbs · 30g fat
Recipe by:
Comforting Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Using a wooden spoon, break it apart as it cooks until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Then, add the thinly sliced potatoes. Let this simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Once the potatoes are ready, stir in the chopped kale and let it wilt for a couple of minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Warm through for a few more minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. It's a great dish to make in advance as the flavors meld beautifully. Just add the cream when you're ready to serve.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can experiment with other types like chicken sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter version.
3. What can I substitute for kale?
If you're not a fan of kale, you can use Swiss chard, spinach, or even collard greens as a substitute. Each will provide a unique flavor and texture.
4. Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, Zuppa Toscana can be frozen. However, it's best to freeze it before adding the cream. Thaw and reheat, then stir in the cream just before serving.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to increase the spice level. Adjust it according to your taste preferences.
