Zuppa Toscana Soup

Total Time: 40 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

This Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe is a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home! Creamy, hearty, and packed with spicy sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale – it’s comfort food perfection in one bowl.

Zuppa Toscana (“Tuscan Soup”) is a classic Italian dish featuring savory sausage, potatoes, and leafy greens simmered in a creamy broth. This Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe stays true to tradition with a rich, velvety texture and bold flavors.

4.96 from 2,800+ reviews  Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 30 mins
Total: 40 mins
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 4-5 Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 4 cups chopped kale
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage

• Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed if using links) to the pot.
• Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into small crumbles. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink.
• Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate lined with paper towels (to absorb excess grease).

2. Sauté Onions & Garlic

• In the same pot, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
• Add 1 diced yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until soft and translucent.
• Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).

3. Cook Potatoes in Broth

• Pour 6 cups chicken broth into the pot, followed by 4-5 cubed Yukon Gold potatoes (1-inch pieces).
• Season with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper.
• Bring the broth to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15-18 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Add Cream, Kale & Sausage

• Stir in 4 cups chopped kale (stems removed) and 2 cups heavy cream.
• Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes (do not boil, as cream may curdle).
• Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt/pepper if needed.

5. Serve

• Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes (optional).
• Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping!

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 42g

Tips for the Best Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe

• Use fresh kale for the best texture (avoid frozen).
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Garnish with crispy bacon bits or Parmesan cheese.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 weeks. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture.

What to Serve With Zuppa Toscana Soup

• Crusty Garlic Bread
• Simple Arugula Salad
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches