Name: Zuppa Toscana
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups russet potatoes, thinly sliced or diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh kale, chopped (stems removed); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Zuppa Toscana is a rich and hearty Italian-inspired soup loaded with crumbled sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale, all simmered in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s warm, savory, and satisfying—perfect for cozy evenings or whenever I want a comforting bowl of soup that’s full of bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple yet flavorful this soup is. The sausage brings deep, savory richness while the potatoes add that creamy, comforting texture. The kale brightens things up with a bit of freshness, and the cream ties everything together into a velvety, delicious broth. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and even better the next day. Zuppa Toscana

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on my taste)
Yellow onion, diced
Garlic cloves, minced
Russet potatoes, thinly sliced or diced
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Fresh kale, chopped (stems removed)
Olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
Salt and pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Directions

I heat a bit of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat, then brown the sausage until fully cooked and crumbled. I remove any excess fat if necessary.
I add the diced onions and garlic to the pot and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
I stir in the potatoes and pour in the chicken broth, making sure the potatoes are covered.
I bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
I add the chopped kale and heavy cream, then simmer for another 5–10 minutes until the kale wilts and the flavors blend.
I season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste, then serve hot with a slice of crusty bread if I’m in the mood.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes around 6 servings and takes about 40 minutes total—15 minutes for prep and 25 minutes to cook. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead lunch.

Variations

I sometimes use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, or full-fat coconut milk if I’m keeping it dairy-free. For a vegetarian twist, I use plant-based sausage and swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Spinach can also be used in place of kale for a quicker-cooking option.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When I reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, I give it a good stir and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickened up too much. It also freezes well—though I usually add the cream fresh after reheating for the best texture. Zuppa Toscana

FAQs

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plain, unsweetened non-dairy cream alternative. It still turns out creamy and rich.

What sausage works best?

I like using spicy Italian sausage for extra kick, but mild sausage works just as well. I’ve also tried it with turkey sausage, and it was delicious.

What potatoes are best for this soup?

Russet potatoes are my go-to because they soften and help thicken the broth. Yukon golds are also a great choice for a creamier texture.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely. I often make it a day ahead because the flavors deepen as it sits. I just reheat it gently and adjust the seasoning before serving.

How can I thicken the soup?

If I want a thicker texture, I mash a few of the potatoes in the pot or stir in a small cornstarch slurry during the last few minutes of simmering.

Conclusion

Zuppa Toscana is a go-to comfort soup in my kitchen—rich, creamy, and full of hearty goodness. It’s easy to customize, simple to make, and perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week. Every spoonful is warm, flavorful, and totally satisfying.