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Easy Zuppa Toscana Recipe

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This Easy Zuppa Toscana is a rich, creamy, and comforting soup, packed with Italian sausage, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a garlic-infused, creamy broth. A homemade version of the Olive Garden classic, this soup is hearty, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy!)
  • 4 strips bacon, chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 3 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced (or diced for quicker cooking!)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat!)
  • 3 cups kale, chopped (or baby spinach for a milder taste!)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option!)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional!)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Brown until fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes), then drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Add diced onion to the pot and cook until soft (about 3 minutes).
  2. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

  1. Pour in chicken broth and add sliced potatoes.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Kale & Cream

  1. Stir in chopped kale and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
  2. Lower heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine.
  3. Add salt & black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Serve warm with crusty bread or garlic bread!

Serving Suggestions

  • With Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth!
  • With a Salad: Serve alongside a simple Caesar or garden salad.
  • With Extra Spice: Add a dash of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes.

Notes

  • Want it lighter? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap potatoes for cauliflower.
  • Dairy-free? Use coconut milk or cashew cream.
  • More veggies? Add carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • Make it ahead! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days—flavors get even better over time!

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/easy-zuppa-toscana-recipe-2/