Zuppa Toscana Soup

It is so easy to make Zuppa Toscana Soup at home! This incredible copycat recipe is even better than the restaurant version and can be made on the stove top or in the crock pot. Perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or meal prep for busy weeks, this soup stands out with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in just an hour.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage, cream, and spices creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer using a stovetop or a crock pot, this recipe accommodates your cooking style.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with kale and potatoes, this soup provides essential nutrients while still being indulgent.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it for dinner, lunch, or at gatherings; it’s sure to impress everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Zuppa Toscana Soup seamless. Below are some essential items to gather before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring, as it prevents scratching non-stick surfaces and allows for thorough mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small yellow onion (diced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (can sub Worcestershire sauce)
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 5 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 3-4 small russet potatoes (about 1 lb.)
– 3 cups kale (roughly chopped)
– 1 teaspoon EACH: mustard powder, dried parsley
– ½ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, dried basil
– 1 pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Grated Parmesan
– Roughly chopped bacon

How to Make Zuppa Toscana Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Cook and crumble the sausage in a large soup pot over medium heat until cooked through, about 10 minutes.
2. Reserve 1 tablespoon of drippings and set the sausage aside. If you don’t have drippings, use an additional tablespoon of butter.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Add the reserved drippings along with butter back into the pot.
2. Add the diced onions and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic, hot sauce, soy sauce, and seasonings; cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

1. Add flour to the mixture.
2. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the raw flour smell is gone.

Step 4: Add Broth and Cream

1. Gradually add chicken broth in small splashes while stirring continuously.
2. Repeat with heavy cream until fully integrated.
3. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.

Step 5: Prepare Potatoes

1. Clean the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
2. Cut them in half lengthwise then into ¼-inch slices.
3. Add sliced potatoes along with cooked sausage to the soup.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

1. Let the mixture simmer for another 10 minutes or until potatoes are nearly fork-tender.
2. Stir in chopped kale and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Your Soup

1. Transfer Zuppa Toscana Soup into serving bowls.
2. Garnish with red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan cheese, and/or chopped bacon as desired.
3. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!

How to Serve Zuppa Toscana Soup

Serving Zuppa Toscana Soup can elevate your dining experience and bring warmth to any meal. Here are some creative ways to present this hearty dish.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Slice a warm baguette for dipping into the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds flavor and crunch alongside the soup.

Topped with Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan enhances the creamy texture.
• Chopped Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the soup well.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• Bread Bowl Presentation: Serve Zuppa Toscana in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun twist that’s perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Zuppa Toscana Soup

To make the best Zuppa Toscana Soup, follow these simple tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs provide more vibrant flavors than dried alternatives.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust salt, pepper, or seasonings according to your preference.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Letting the soup simmer longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.
• Add Cream Slowly: Incorporate heavy cream gradually to achieve an ideal consistency without curdling.
• Experiment with Sausage Types: Try different sausage varieties (like spicy or sweet) to tailor the heat level to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Zuppa Toscana Soup

Pairing side dishes with Zuppa Toscana Soup can create a complete meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic make for delightful dipping companions.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
3. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and olives adds variety to your table.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrients alongside your soup.
5. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed in Italian dressing complements the flavors of Zuppa Toscana well.
6. Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto provides a comforting side that pairs nicely with this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Zuppa Toscana Soup at home is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience.

• Ignoring the sausage quality: Using low-quality sausage can lead to a bland soup. Opt for good Italian sausage, hot or mild, for the best flavor.
• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking the onions and garlic properly can result in an unbalanced taste. Always sauté them until softened before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you let the potatoes boil too long, they’ll become mushy. Cook them just until fork-tender for the best texture.
• Neglecting seasonings: Forgetting to add enough spices can leave your soup flat. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to enhance flavor.
• Not incorporating greens correctly: Adding kale too early can make it overly wilted. Stir it in towards the end of cooking for a fresh bite.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Zuppa Toscana Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Zuppa Toscana Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; be sure to label the containers with dates.

Reheating Zuppa Toscana Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until steaming hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zuppa Toscana Soup?

Zuppa Toscana Soup is a hearty Italian soup made with Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, and cream. It’s known for its rich flavors and comforting texture.

Can I make Zuppa Toscana Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I thicken Zuppa Toscana Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can add more flour during cooking or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.

What can I serve with Zuppa Toscana Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Zuppa Toscana Soup is an irresistible dish that combines warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at gatherings, this recipe is sure to delight!