Go Back
Creamy and savory Zuppa Toscana soup, a traditional Italian dish featuring potatoes, sausage, and kale.

Ultimate Creamy Zuppa Toscana

This ultimate Zuppa Toscana recipe delivers a perfectly creamy and comforting Italian soup, packed with savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Spoon
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and continue to simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has melted and the soup has thickened.
  5. Add the chopped kale and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the kale is wilted.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and crusty bread, if desired.

Notes

The key to achieving the signature creamy texture of Zuppa Toscana is the combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the natural starch from the potatoes. For best results, use high-quality Italian sausage and fresh kale. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.