Zuppa Toscana Soup

This Zuppa Toscana Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any occasion. With its rich blend of spicy Italian sausage, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and nutritious kale simmered in a creamy broth, this dish delivers comfort and flavor. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with friends, Zuppa Toscana Soup is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and bacon creates a savory depth that makes every spoonful irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in just under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the greens or use different potatoes based on what you have on hand.
• Comforting and Filling: This hearty soup provides both warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for cold days.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for later enjoyment without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-based pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy-based pot: Provides even heat distribution for simmering the soup perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while breaking up sausage.
• Chef’s knife: Makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.

Ingredients

This Zuppa Toscana Soup features spicy Italian sausage, crisp bacon, tender potatoes, and nutritious kale, all simmered in a creamy broth. A perfect blend of taste and comfort in every bowl!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound mild Italian Sausage (hot or mild)
– 1/2 cup diced bacon
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 large onion (finely chopped)
– 6 cloves garlic (minced)
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cube beef bouillon (crushed)
– 4-5 small Russet potatoes (about 1 pound, rinsed and sliced into 1/4-inch slices)
– 1 cup half and half or heavy cream
– 3 cups chopped kale, hard stems removed (substitute with baby spinach leaves or Swiss chard)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
– 1 teaspoon EACH: mustard powder, dried parsley, ground fennel
– ½ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, adjust to your taste)
– Grated Parmesan

How to Make Zuppa Toscana Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a heavy-based pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. After about 10 minutes, when the sausage is browned and fully cooked, drain off most of the oil, leaving roughly 1 teaspoon of drippings in the pot. Then, transfer the cooked sausage to a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In the same pot/Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy, about 2 minutes. After cooking, drain the pot while reserving around 1-2 teaspoons of bacon drippings. Transfer to the plate with the cooked sausage.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

Add the reserved drippings and butter to the soup pot. Then add the onions. Cook over medium heat until they soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Incorporate Flour

Add the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the raw flour smell is gone.

Step 6: Pour in Broth

Turn up the heat to high. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Season with crushed bouillon and add all seasonings.

Step 7: Add Potatoes

Add sliced potatoes to the boiling broth. Cook them until they are fork-tender; this takes about 10 minutes.

Step 8: Mix in Cream & Greens

Lower the heat to medium. Stir in half-and-half or heavy cream along with the cooked sausage and bacon mixture. Add chopped kale; allow everything to simmer for about two more minutes until kale leaves have softened.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top if desired! Enjoy your delicious Zuppa Toscana Soup!

How to Serve Zuppa Toscana Soup

Serving Zuppa Toscana Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings that elevate its flavor profile. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Toppings

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top for an extra creamy and savory touch.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping, enhancing the soup’s rich flavors.
• Chili Flakes: Add a pinch of chili flakes for those who enjoy a little extra heat.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing; the buttery garlic flavor complements the soup perfectly.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites make for a great appetizer alongside this hearty dish.

Drinks

• Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or any medium-bodied red wine pairs excellently with the flavors in Zuppa Toscana.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, serve chilled iced tea to refresh your palate.

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How to Perfect Zuppa Toscana Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Zuppa Toscana Soup requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your soup-making skills.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh kale and high-quality sausage for the best flavor and texture in your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to modify seasonings based on your preference; add more salt or herbs as desired.
• Cream Consistency: For a richer base, consider using heavy cream instead of half-and-half, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 30 minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Serve Warm: Always serve the soup hot. Reheat gently if necessary, ensuring it doesn’t boil again after adding cream.

Best Side Dishes for Zuppa Toscana Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Zuppa Toscana Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this Italian classic.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an excellent starter or snack.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides crunch alongside the creamy soup.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These warm biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal while enhancing flavors.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables brings variety to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Zuppa Toscana Soup, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the sausage quality: Using low-quality sausage can lead to an inferior soup. Always choose good-quality Italian sausage for rich flavor.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meat properly can result in a bland soup. Make sure to cook the sausage and bacon until crispy for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you cook the potatoes too long, they may turn mushy. Aim for fork-tender potatoes for the perfect texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every palate is different. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for balanced flavors.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Old or wilted greens will affect taste and texture. Always opt for fresh kale or spinach to enhance your soup’s quality.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Zuppa Toscana Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Zuppa Toscana Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top as it expands.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Zuppa Toscana Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Zuppa Toscana Soup.

What is Zuppa Toscana Soup?

Zuppa Toscana Soup is a hearty Italian soup made with sausage, bacon, potatoes, kale, and creamy broth. It’s perfect for chilly days!

How do I make Zuppa Toscana Soup healthier?

To make Zuppa Toscana Soup healthier, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork and low-fat milk instead of cream.

Can I freeze leftover Zuppa Toscana Soup?

Yes! You can freeze leftover Zuppa Toscana Soup for up to three months. Just ensure it’s stored properly in airtight containers.

What can I substitute for kale in Zuppa Toscana Soup?

If you don’t have kale on hand, baby spinach or Swiss chard makes excellent substitutes and will still provide great flavor.

Final Thoughts

Zuppa Toscana Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Its blend of flavors makes it versatile; you can easily customize it by adding other vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy every cozy bite!