The Best Homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Zuppa Toscana soup is cozy, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with simple ingredients that pack a punch.
- Rich and creamy broth—just the right balance of savory and comforting.
- Hearty and filling—loaded with potatoes, sausage, and kale for a satisfying meal.
- Easy to customize—swap ingredients or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
Recipe
Zuppa Toscana, a hearty Italian soup, is a creamy and flavorful dish featuring spicy sausage, tender potatoes, and kale in a rich broth. This homemade version captures the essence of the classic Olive Garden favorite, offering a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked sausage and chopped kale. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes:
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
- Adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or hot Italian sausage and adding red pepper flakes to taste.
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
Italian
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade Zuppa Toscana soup is packed with flavor and nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 850mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Protein | 15g |
What To Serve With It
A crusty loaf of bread is my go-to for soaking up every last drop of this rich Zuppa Toscana—try garlic bread or a rustic sourdough for extra flavor. If you want something lighter, a simple side salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the soup’s creaminess perfectly. I love adding roasted veggies or a charcuterie board for a heartier meal, but honestly, this soup shines all on its own too.
Bread Pairings
When you’re digging into a bowl of rich, creamy Zuppa Toscana, you’ll want something to soak up every last drop—that’s where the right bread comes in. I love crusty Italian bread or a warm baguette, torn into chunks for dipping. Garlic bread adds a punch of flavor, while focaccia’s herby, olive oil-kissed crust pairs perfectly. For something heartier, try ciabatta or sourdough—their chewy texture holds up against the soup’s creaminess. If you’re feeling fancy, brush slices with butter and toast them golden. Trust me, the right bread turns a great meal into an unforgettable one.
Side Salad Ideas
Even though Zuppa Toscana is already packed with flavor, a fresh side salad can brighten up the whole meal—I love balancing the soup’s richness with something crisp and tangy. A simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette works wonders, or try spinach with sliced strawberries and almonds for a sweet twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, a classic Caesar salad adds crunch, while a kale salad with Parmesan and breadcrumbs feels hearty. I often toss in a few cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for extra freshness. Trust me, these salads make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the star—your delicious soup!
