Zuppa Toscana, a hearty Italian soup, has captivated taste buds worldwide with its rich flavors and comforting warmth. Originating from Tuscany, this dish combines simple ingredients to create a culinary masterpiece. Whether seeking a cozy meal for a chilly evening or aiming to impress guests with a flavorful starter, Zuppa Toscana is a versatile choice. Its blend of spicy sausage, creamy broth, and fresh vegetables makes it a timeless favorite.

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Why You Will Love the Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe

Zuppa Toscana isn’t just a soup; it’s an experience. Here’s why it stands out:

Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spicy Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and creamy broth delivers a depth of satisfying and comforting flavor.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with kale and potatoes, this soup offers a hearty dose of vitamins and minerals.
Versatility: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences, including low-carb and gluten-free options.
Quick and Easy: You can enjoy this delicious soup in under an hour with a straightforward preparation process.

Ingredients You Will Need

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb (450g) spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
5 cups (1.2L) chicken broth
2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
4 cups (120g) fresh kale, chopped
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Cook Zuppa Toscana Soup

Follow these steps to create a flavorful Zuppa Toscana:

Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Bacon

In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove and set aside. In the same pot, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook until tender, approximately 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Greens

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Sausage and Bacon

Return the cooked sausage and bacon to the pot. Stir to combine and heat through. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Zuppa Toscana is a hearty Italian soup featuring spicy sausage, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a creamy, flavorful broth. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 6 Servings

Course: Soup

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1 lb 450g spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
4 slices bacon chopped
1 large onion diced
3 cloves garlic minced
6 medium potatoes thinly sliced
5 cups 1.2L chicken broth
2 cups 480ml heavy cream
4 cups 120g fresh kale, chopped
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional

Method

Cook sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart. Remove and set aside. Cook chopped bacon until crispy; remove and set aside, leaving some bacon fat.
Add diced onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, add sliced potatoes, and cook until tender, 10–15 minutes.
Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
Return sausage and bacon to the pot. Stir to combine and heat through. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half the cream with milk. Adjust spice by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes. Leftovers reheat well in a pot over low heat; avoid boiling to preserve creaminess. Serve with crusty bread, Parmesan, and fresh herbs for the best experience. Pairs beautifully with a glass of Pinot Grigio or light white wine.

Serving Tips for Zuppa Toscana Soup

Enhance your dining experience with these serving suggestions:

Pair with Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a loaf of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the soup for added richness.
Add a Side Salad: A light green salad can balance the meal and add freshness.
Serve with a Glass of Wine: The flavors of the soup are complemented by a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A fresh parsley or basil sprinkle can add color and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Zuppa Toscana Soup

Zuppa Toscana offers more than just great taste:

Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 7g
Fiber: 2g

This soup provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, making it a satisfying meal option.

Conclusion

Zuppa Toscana is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful. Its rich taste and hearty ingredients make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of this classic Italian soup in the comfort of your home.