If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly days, then look no further than Easy Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup. This savory Italian-inspired soup is loaded with tender potatoes, savory sausage, crispy bacon, and fresh kale, all simmered in a creamy broth. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress. Plus, it’s simple to make with ingredients you likely already have on hand!
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious soup step-by-step, and share some tips for ensuring it turns out perfect every time. Let’s dive into the recipe!
What Is Zuppa Toscana Soup?
Zuppa Toscana, which translates to “Tuscan Soup,” is a popular Italian dish known for its comforting and rich flavors. It combines a blend of earthy vegetables, savory sausage, and a creamy broth. The recipe has become widely popular, especially after being featured at places like Olive Garden, but making it from scratch at home can be even more satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup
- Creamy and flavorful: The creamy base made with heavy cream or half-and-half gives the soup its rich, indulgent texture.
- Simple ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy to make this delicious soup. With ingredients like sausage, bacon, potatoes, and kale, you can easily whip up this hearty dish in less than an hour.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re looking to warm up after a long day or impress guests at a dinner party, Zuppa Toscana is always a hit!
Ingredients for Zuppa Toscana Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 4-5 medium potatoes, sliced thinly
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 cups kale, chopped (remove stems)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
How to Make Easy Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Bacon
In a large soup pot, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set it aside. Next, add the chopped bacon to the same pot and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside with the sausage.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the sliced potatoes and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Sausage, Bacon, and Kale
Return the cooked sausage and bacon to the pot. Stir in the chopped kale and let it wilt down, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half). Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Preparation Time & Cooking Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes about 6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for the next day!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Zuppa Toscana Soup
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes: They have a creamy texture that works beautifully in this soup.
- Customize your greens: While kale is traditional, you can also use spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer.
- Make it dairy-free: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free broth if you have dietary restrictions.
- Freeze for later: Zuppa Toscana freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Easy Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup is a must-try for anyone craving a delicious and comforting soup. With a creamy broth, savory sausage, crispy bacon, and fresh kale, it’s a hearty meal that will please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s so simple to make, you can whip it up in less than an hour!
Whether you’re planning to pin this recipe for later or making it right now, we hope you enjoy the warmth and flavor of this Italian classic. Happy cooking!