Description
This Zuppa Toscana is a delightful twist on the classic Italian soup, featuring creamy broth and crispy beef bacon. It’s a hearty dish that warms you up on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (960 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 medium russet potatoes, sliced thinly (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 4 cups kale, stems removed, chopped (about 1 bunch)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add the thick-cut beef bacon to the pot. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the bacon is crispy. The grease from the bacon will flavor the sausage and add richness to the soup.
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits that may have stuck. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once simmering, add the sliced russet potatoes. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, making sure to combine everything thoroughly. Allow the soup to warm through for about 3-4 minutes.
- Fold in the chopped kale and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the kale is wilted and vibrant. Avoid overcooking, as you want the kale to retain some texture.
- Season to taste with salt and black pepper before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Choose high-quality sausage for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking the kale to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.