Zuppa Toscana - Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup
Zuppa Toscana is a comforting, hearty Italian soup that's rich with flavors of Italian sausage, tender potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth. It's a perfect one-pot meal that brings warmth to any table. This recipe is simple to prepare and is ideal for those cold days when you want a homemade, comforting bowl of soup. The rich cream blends perfectly with the spicy sausage and mild potatoes, creating a satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, to taste)
- 4 cups russet potatoes, sliced thinly
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 bunch kale, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Olive oil, for sautéing
Directions
Brown the sausage. Heat a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and cook the Italian sausage until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove sausage and set aside.
Sauté the onions and garlic. In the same pot, add diced onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add potatoes and broth. Add the thinly sliced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in kale and cream. Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the chopped kale and let it cook for about 5 minutes, until the kale is wilted. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
Season and serve. Return the cooked sausage to the pot, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Recipe tips
For added flavor, you can deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine before adding the potatoes and broth. This adds depth to the soup. If you like spicy food, use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes. For a milder soup, opt for sweet sausage and omit the red pepper flakes. Thinly slice the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly and quickly. A mandoline slicer is great for this step. You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk if you want a dairy-free option.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Gumbo is a rich, hearty, and flavorful stew that brings the taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen. Packed with bold spices, tender meats, and a thick roux base, this dish is a Southern classic. Whether you're a fan of seafood, sausage, or chicken, this gumbo recipe has something for everyone. Serve it over rice for a comforting meal that's perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Creamy, comforting, and loaded with nutritious broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect dish for those chilly days when you need something warm and hearty. The combination of fresh broccoli, rich cheddar, and a hint of garlic makes this soup both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just looking to treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels.
There's nothing quite like a bowl of hearty, creamy clam chowder to warm you up on a chilly day. This classic New England-style clam chowder is loaded with tender clams, smoky bacon, and tender potatoes, all simmered in a rich, savory broth. It's comforting, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy meal at home. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this clam chowder recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.
Potato Leek Soup is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for chilly days or when you crave something warm and soothing. The combination of tender potatoes and mild leeks creates a velvety texture, while a hint of garlic and fresh herbs enhances the flavor. This soup is easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal, whether you're serving it as a starter or the main course.
Warm, comforting, and delightfully creamy, this Butternut Squash Soup is the perfect dish to soothe your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Made with roasted butternut squash, savory onions, garlic, and a hint of nutmeg, this soup is rich in flavor yet light enough to enjoy any time of the day. It's a simple recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, making it a family favorite. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is a go-to choice.
This hearty and comforting Chicken and Rice Soup is perfect for those cold days when you crave something warm and nourishing. With tender chicken, fragrant vegetables, and fluffy rice all simmered together in a flavorful broth, it’s a dish that’s both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're fighting off a cold or just want a wholesome meal, this soup is sure to warm your soul.
Cabbage Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that's easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. It’s a classic comfort food that’s great for chilly days or when you need something light yet filling. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage while balancing it with savory vegetables and spices. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner and can be adapted to suit any dietary needs.
There's nothing quite like a hearty beef stew to warm your soul and fill your kitchen with comforting aromas. This classic recipe features tender beef, slow-cooked to perfection with carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich, flavorful broth. It's a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner, especially on those chilly evenings when you need something that truly satisfies. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this beef stew will become a go-to recipe for anyone looking to cook their own wholesome meal.
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Tomato Basil Soup. With the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil, this soup is a timeless classic that’s both simple and delicious. Ideal for those who enjoy homemade meals, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a rich, velvety soup that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a light meal, this Tomato Basil Soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Albondigas Soup, also known as Mexican Meatball Soup, is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting meal. Made with tender beef and rice meatballs simmered in a rich, tomato-based broth, this soup is packed with vegetables and warm spices. It's a satisfying dish that brings together bold Mexican flavors, making it ideal for family dinners or a cozy meal on a cool day.
This Sweet Potato Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish that warms the soul. Made with tender sweet potatoes, a hint of spice, and creamy coconut milk, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and savory. Ideal for a cozy dinner or as a light lunch, this hearty soup is both nutritious and comforting. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
Borscht is a traditional Eastern European soup made with vibrant red beets, vegetables, and a hearty broth. This comforting dish is full of rich flavors from the sweet earthiness of beets, the tang of vinegar, and the freshness of dill. It’s a nourishing and satisfying meal perfect for any time of the year, especially during colder months. Borscht can be enjoyed hot or cold, with a dollop of sour cream on top and some crusty bread on the side.
Transform ordinary mushrooms into a delightful appetizer or snack with this easy and delicious Stuffed Mushrooms recipe. Perfect for any occasion, these savory bites are filled with a creamy, garlicky, and cheesy mixture that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to become a favorite in your household.
This moist and flavorful Carrot Cake is packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. It's the perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness and spice, along with a soft texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you're making it for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this carrot cake will never disappoint.
Meat pies are a savory delight packed with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for a hearty meal, these pies are comforting and satisfying, whether served hot or cold. This classic recipe brings together tender beef, rich spices, and a perfectly golden crust that will make it a family favorite. Meat pies are versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day, making them a must-try dish for home cooks.
Ice cream sandwiches are the ultimate treat for warm days, bringing together soft, chewy cookies and creamy ice cream in a deliciously simple dessert. This homemade version gives you the flexibility to mix and match cookie flavors and ice cream types, making each bite a unique experience. Perfect for a summer snack, parties, or just a bit of indulgence, these ice cream sandwiches are a fun and customizable dessert that everyone will love!
This Vegan Mushroom Gravy is a rich, flavorful, and comforting sauce that's perfect for all kinds of meals, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies. Made with hearty mushrooms and savory spices, it’s a fantastic dairy-free, plant-based gravy that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. With its smooth, earthy flavor, this gravy will elevate any dish it’s paired with, and it’s quick to prepare, making it a versatile recipe for any occasion.
Crispy, tangy, and oh-so-addictive, fried pickles are the ultimate snack that brings Southern charm to your kitchen. This easy recipe takes the classic dill pickle and transforms it into a crunchy, golden-brown treat that’s perfect for game day, a casual gathering, or simply when you're craving something savory and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you’ll have a batch of irresistible fried pickles that will disappear in no time.
Boston Cream Pie is a delicious classic dessert that layers light, fluffy sponge cake with smooth vanilla pastry cream, all topped with a rich chocolate ganache. Despite its name, this indulgent treat is more cake than pie and is a favorite for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe will have you coming back for more.
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a decadent dessert featuring a moist date cake topped with rich toffee sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. The caramelized sauce soaks into the cake, creating a gooey, sticky delight that melts in your mouth. This classic British dessert is ideal for special occasions, cold evenings, or whenever you need a cozy, indulgent treat.
A Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that is refreshing and perfect for hot days. Traditionally associated with the Kentucky Derby, this cocktail combines fresh mint, bourbon, simple syrup, and crushed ice for a cool and flavorful drink. Its simplicity allows the mint and bourbon to shine, making it both elegant and easy to prepare at home. Whether you're a seasoned bartender or a beginner, you'll find this recipe easy to follow and even easier to enjoy.
Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and delicious appetizer that's perfect for any gathering. This crowd-pleaser combines tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and a blend of rich cheeses to create a warm, savory dip that's irresistible. Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a tasty snack, this dip is sure to be a hit.
Cornstarch gravy is an easy and versatile sauce, perfect for adding rich flavor to your favorite dishes. Whether you're making it for mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or even vegetables, this simple recipe uses cornstarch as a thickener to create a smooth, glossy gravy without flour. It's quick to make and delivers a silky, flavorful sauce every time. The best part? You can customize it by using chicken, beef, or vegetable broth, depending on what you’re serving it with.
Shrimp Cocktail is a classic appetizer that’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. The tender, juicy shrimp are paired with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce that’s packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity; it’s quick to prepare and delivers a sophisticated taste that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, Shrimp Cocktail is a go-to recipe that never disappoints.
Cajun Jambalaya is a flavorful, one-pot dish that's packed with bold spices, smoky sausage, tender chicken, and shrimp. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a hearty, satisfying meal with a little kick of heat. This dish, rooted in Louisiana cuisine, combines rich flavors and the comfort of rice, making it ideal for a family dinner or a festive gathering.
Lasagna is a hearty and comforting dish that brings rich layers of flavor with each bite. It’s a classic Italian meal that combines tender pasta sheets, savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese. This recipe is ideal for family dinners or special gatherings, and its deep, satisfying taste makes it a favorite at the table. If you’ve never made lasagna from scratch before, don’t worry – with a little time and care, you’ll have a homemade lasagna that rivals any restaurant dish.
If you're looking for a light yet satisfying meal that's packed with fresh flavors and textures, this Chopped Salad is the perfect choice. It's a combination of crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, savory cheese, and a tangy homemade dressing that brings everything together. Whether you're enjoying it as a main course or a side dish, this salad is versatile, nutritious, and ideal for anyone who wants to eat healthy without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences, so feel free to get creative!
This vibrant Quinoa Salad is a refreshing, healthy dish packed with nutrients. Combining the nutty flavor of quinoa with fresh vegetables, tangy lemon juice, and a hint of olive oil, this salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a satisfying snack, it’s a meal that will leave you feeling nourished and energized. The best part? It’s gluten-free, vegan, and loaded with plant-based protein!
If you're craving a quick, bold snack with a kick, these spicy peanuts are perfect for you! Coated with a blend of spices and lightly roasted, they deliver just the right amount of heat and crunch. This recipe is simple to prepare, ideal for parties, movie nights, or as a flavorful snack throughout the day. You can adjust the spice level to your taste and experiment with different seasoning combinations. Get ready for a snack that's both delicious and addictive!
Rice Krispie Treats are an all-time favorite snack that combines crunchy cereal with gooey marshmallows to create a sweet, chewy, and crispy delight. These treats are super easy to make, perfect for when you need something quick and fun for kids or for a nostalgic snack. Whether you're preparing them for a party, school lunchbox, or simply to satisfy your own craving, this recipe will make sure you get perfect results every time.
Indulge in the rich, decadent pleasure of Chocolate Lava Cake—a treat that combines a gooey molten center with a soft, spongy outer layer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen. Perfect for dinner parties or when you're craving something chocolatey and indulgent. This cake is best served warm, with the molten chocolate flowing out at the first bite!
Flaky, buttery, and filled with sweet almond paste, Bear Claws are a classic pastry that's perfect for breakfast or a mid-day snack. These delightful pastries are made with puff pastry dough, shaped into a bear claw-like appearance, and filled with a rich almond filling. Topped with sliced almonds and a light drizzle of icing, they make for an irresistible treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.