Name: Easy Homemade Zuppa Toscana
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 3-4 medium russet potatoes, sliced or diced; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cups fresh kale, chopped; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

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Zuppa Toscana is a hearty, flavorful Italian-inspired soup packed with sausage, potatoes, kale, and a rich, creamy broth. This easy homemade version brings restaurant-quality flavor right to my kitchen, with simple ingredients and comforting textures that make it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and simple this Zuppa Toscana is to make without sacrificing any of that deep, savory flavor. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug—rich, creamy, and filling. The combination of spicy Italian sausage and tender potatoes gives it substance, while the kale adds a nice fresh bite. Best of all, it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Easy Homemade Zuppa Toscana

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
Russet potatoes, sliced or diced
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Fresh kale, chopped
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Then I cook the sausage, breaking it into crumbles until browned and fully cooked. I remove it from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, I sauté the chopped onion until soft, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Then I add the potatoes and cook until they’re tender, about 10-15 minutes.
I stir in the cooked sausage and chopped kale, letting it simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
Finally, I reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. I let it warm through without boiling, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
I ladle it into bowls and top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings and takes around 40 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a family meal or to enjoy throughout the week.

Variations

I sometimes swap kale for spinach if I want a softer green.
For a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
I’ve also made it with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
To make it vegetarian, I use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
If I want to add more depth, I toss in a splash of white wine after cooking the onions.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I’m ready to reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. If the soup thickens in the fridge, I stir in a little extra broth or water to loosen it up. This soup also freezes well—just be sure to leave out the cream if freezing, and add it fresh when reheating.

FAQs

How do I make Zuppa Toscana less spicy?

I use mild Italian sausage and skip the red pepper flakes to keep it on the milder side. It’s still full of flavor without the heat.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, I substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer. It gives the soup a similar richness without the dairy.

What kind of potatoes work best?

I usually use russet potatoes because they break down slightly and make the broth creamier. Yukon gold potatoes also work well and hold their shape better.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. I brown the sausage first, then add all the ingredients except cream to the slow cooker. I cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cream just before serving.

How can I thicken the soup?

If I want it thicker, I mash a few of the cooked potatoes in the pot or add a small cornstarch slurry at the end. It gives the soup a slightly creamier texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Homemade Zuppa Toscana has become one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every spoonful. Whether I’m feeding family or just want leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this soup never disappoints. I hope it brings as much warmth to your table as it does to mine.