Easy Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup

A Cozy and Flavorful Italian-Inspired Soup

Zuppa Toscana is a rich and creamy soup made famous by Olive Garden, but making it at home is incredibly simple. This comforting dish combines hearty potatoes, flavorful Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and fresh kale in a velvety broth. With just a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• One-Pot Meal – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
• Customizable – Can be made dairy-free, gluten-free, or even vegetarian.
• Rich & Comforting – A satisfying balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups water
• 4 medium russet potatoes, sliced thin
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups kale, chopped (or spinach)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Bacon

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot.

2. Brown the Sausage

Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the sliced potatoes. Bring to a gentle boil and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Add the Cream and Kale

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale softens. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle into bowls and top with the crispy bacon. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free – Use coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer instead of heavy cream.
• Vegetarian – Swap sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free – This recipe is naturally gluten-free but check labels on store-bought ingredients.
• Lower Fat – Use turkey sausage and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months (without the cream). Add cream after reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Zuppa Toscana less spicy?

Use mild Italian sausage and omit the red pepper flakes.

Can I use spinach instead of kale?

Yes! Spinach is a great substitute and softens quickly in the soup.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Cook the bacon and sausage first, then add all ingredients except the cream and kale. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the cream and kale at the end.

What’s the best sausage to use?

Mild or spicy Italian sausage works best, but chicken sausage is a lighter option.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers add extra flavor and nutrients.

Is this soup keto-friendly?

To make it keto, replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, but browning raw sausage adds more flavor.

Why does my soup look curdled?

If the cream was added while the soup was boiling, it may separate. Lower the heat before adding it.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What’s the best way to serve Zuppa Toscana?

With crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple side salad.

Conclusion

This homemade Zuppa Toscana is an easy, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that rivals any restaurant version. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Try it today and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of this Italian-inspired classic!

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