Easy Zuppa Toscana: A Creamy, Comforting One-Pot Soup Everyone Loves

When it comes to cozy, satisfying soups that deliver big flavor with minimal effort, Easy Zuppa Toscana sits at the top of the list. Inspired by the beloved restaurant classic, this homemade version brings together savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, hearty kale, and a rich, creamy broth — all in one pot and ready in under an hour.

Zuppa Toscana translates to “Tuscan soup,” and while the Olive Garden version may be the most famous, the flavor profile itself is timeless. Creamy but not heavy, hearty yet balanced, this soup is perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or anytime you crave comfort food that feels a little indulgent.

Why This Easy Zuppa Toscana Recipe Works

This recipe focuses on simplicity without sacrificing depth. Browning the sausage builds a flavorful base, potatoes simmer directly in the broth to thicken it naturally, and cream is added at the end to keep the soup smooth and rich. Kale brings a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness beautifully.

Because everything cooks in one pot, cleanup is minimal — making this a go-to recipe for families, meal prep, and entertaining alike.

Ingredients for Easy Zuppa Toscana

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups water
• 4 medium russet potatoes, sliced thin
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
• Grated parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions: How to Make Easy Zuppa Toscana

1. Brown the Sausage
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove excess grease if needed.
2. Sauté Aromatics
   Add diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Potatoes
   Pour in chicken broth and water. Add sliced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.
4. Simmer
   Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Finish with Cream and Kale
   Stir in heavy cream and chopped kale. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until kale is wilted and tender.
6. Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and top with grated parmesan.

Easy Zuppa Toscana

A creamy, comforting one-pot soup made with Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, and rich broth.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 bowls

Course: Dinner, Soup

Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Calories: 420

Ingredients

  

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage mild or spicy
• 1 onion diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups water
• 4 russet potatoes thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups kale chopped

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon

Method

 

1. Brown sausage in olive oil in a large pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add broth, water, potatoes, and seasonings; bring to a boil.
4. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in cream and kale; simmer briefly.
6. Serve hot with parmesan.

Notes

Add cream at the end to keep the soup smooth.

Tips for the Best Zuppa Toscana

• Slice potatoes thin so they cook evenly
• Add cream at the end to prevent curdling
• Kale softens quickly — don’t overcook
• Use spicy sausage for extra heat

Easy Variations

• Olive Garden Style: Use spicy sausage and extra cream
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or milk
• Bacon Boost: Add crispy bacon bits
• Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets

What to Serve with Zuppa Toscana

This soup pairs perfectly with:

• Crusty bread or breadsticks
• Simple Caesar salad
• Garlic knots

It’s filling enough to be a meal on its own, but sides make it even more comforting.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
• Reheat: Gently over low heat, stirring often
• Freeze: Not recommended due to cream and potatoes

Why This Soup Is Always a Hit

Easy Zuppa Toscana is the definition of reliable comfort food. It’s rich but balanced, simple but satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite or just need a cozy dinner fast, this soup never disappoints.