Zuppa Toscana with Potatoes and Sausage
Zuppa Toscana is a rich, hearty Italian soup that’s become a favorite in kitchens around the world. This version, featuring spicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth, delivers the perfect balance of flavor and comfort. Inspired by Tuscan cuisine, it’s ideal for cold evenings, family dinners, or meal prep for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Filling: Creamy broth, sausage, and potatoes make it satisfying and hearty.
- Easy One-Pot Meal: Simple to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels, add kale or spinach, or make a lighter version with half-and-half.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
This soup is rich and indulgent, but packed with protein and essential nutrients from potatoes, sausage, and greens.
Time Taken
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 25–30 minutes
- Total: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (spicy or mild), casings removed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3–4 medium russet potatoes, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups kale or spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (if needed for sautéing)
Optional: grated parmesan cheese for garnish, crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot, cook Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside. - Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add a little olive oil if needed. - Cook the Potatoes:
Add diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender (about 10–15 minutes). - Add Sausage and Cream:
Return sausage to the pot. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to combine flavors. - Add Greens:
Stir in chopped kale or spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. - Season and Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parmesan or crispy bacon if desired.
You Must Know
- Use starchy potatoes like russet for a creamy texture.
- Don’t overcook the greens, they should be vibrant and slightly crisp.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently; add a splash of broth or cream to restore texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Italian sausage → chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option
- Kale → spinach or Swiss chard
- Heavy cream → coconut milk for a dairy-free version
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or breadsticks.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Top with parmesan, crispy bacon, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Cultural and Historical Context
Zuppa Toscana, meaning “Tuscan soup,” is inspired by rustic Tuscan cuisine from Italy. Traditionally, it features simple ingredients like potatoes, kale, sausage, and broth—reflecting the resourcefulness and hearty flavors of the region. Its creamy version, popularized in restaurants worldwide, remains a beloved comfort food.
Pro Tips
- Brown sausage well to develop deep flavor.
- Dice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- Simmer gently after adding cream to avoid curdling.
Conclusion
Zuppa Toscana with Potatoes and Sausage is a warm, satisfying soup that’s perfect for cold days, family dinners, or entertaining guests. Its creamy broth, hearty potatoes, and flavorful sausage make it a timeless favorite that’s both comforting and delicious.