Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Slice the Potatoes: Thinly slice the potatoes into ¼-inch rounds or half-moons for quick and even cooking.
  2. Chop the Kale: Remove the tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Dice and Mince: Dice the onion and mince the garlic to enhance the soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

  1. Heat the Pot: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat if the chicken sausage is lean.
  2. Cook the Sausage: Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Remove the Sausage: Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pot for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

  1. Cook the Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté over medium heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Build the Soup Base

  1. Add Potatoes: Stir the sliced potatoes into the pot.
  2. Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and water, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged.
  3. Season: Stir in dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

  1. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  2. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Add the Kale and Cream

  1. Incorporate Kale: Stir in the chopped kale and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, until wilted and tender.
  2. Add the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the soup heat through for another 5 minutes without boiling to maintain the creamy texture.

Step 7: Add the Sausage Back

  1. Combine the Sausage: Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir well.
  2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the Soup: Serve the soup hot in bowls.
  2. Garnish: Top with grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, or fresh parsley for added flavor and texture.
  3. Optional Sides: Pair with crusty bread or breadsticks to complete the meal.

Tips for Perfect Zuppa Toscana

  1. Customize the Protein: If you don’t have chicken sausage, you can use pork sausage, turkey sausage, or even ground chicken with added seasonings.
  2. Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
  3. Make It Heartier: Add white beans or cannellini beans for extra protein and fiber.
  4. Use a Mandoline: For evenly sliced potatoes, use a mandoline slicer for consistent results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
  2. Rich and Creamy: The combination of broth, cream, and sausage creates a luxurious, comforting soup.
  3. Nutritious: Packed with kale, potatoes, and chicken sausage, this dish is hearty and full of nutrients.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
  • Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the consistency.

Conclusion

Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup is a deliciously creamy, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or feeding a hungry crowd. With its flavorful blend of seasoned sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a creamy broth, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Follow this step-by-step guide and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort today!