Tuscan Sausage Soup

Tuscan Sausage Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. This creamy, flavorful soup combines spicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and nutritious kale for a comforting meal that warms the soul. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this copycat recipe of Olive Garden’s famous soup is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Tuscan Sausage Soup can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices, sausage, and cream creates a deep, satisfying taste that delights the palate.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with kale and potatoes, this soup offers essential vitamins and minerals while still being indulgent.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or as an appetizer; it fits perfectly into any meal setting.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and hearty ingredients of this delicious soup.

Tools and Preparation

To make Tuscan Sausage Soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools to help you prepare this delightful dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients without overflow.
• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing the cooked sausage from the pot without taking excess grease along with it.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for dicing onions and cutting potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound spicy Italian ground sausage
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ white onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 4-5 yellow potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For Creaminess

• 2 cups heavy cream

For Greens

• 4 cups chopped kale

For Garnish

• Chopped Turkey Turkey Bacon or Turkey Turkey Bacon bits for topping
• Grated parmesan cheese for topping
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Tuscan Sausage Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating your large pot over medium heat.
1. Add the spicy Italian ground sausage to the pot.
2. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until browned.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot:
1. Add 4 tablespoons of butter.
2. Sauté diced onions until they become translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

Now it’s time to build your soup base:
1. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water.
2. Add the 4–5 yellow potatoes cut into 1-inch pieces along with 3 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
3. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it cook until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Kale

Once your potatoes are ready:
1. Stir in 4 cups of chopped kale along with the previously cooked heavy cream (2 cups).
2. Return the cooked sausage back to the pot.
3. Adjust seasoning according to taste.

Step 5: Serve with Garnish

Before serving:
1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Garnish each bowl with grated parmesan cheese and Turkey Turkey Bacon bits if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Tuscan Sausage Soup!

How to Serve Tuscan Sausage Soup

Tuscan Sausage Soup is a hearty dish that warms both body and soul. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your Tuscan Sausage Soup with a loaf of crusty Italian bread. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Fresh herbs add brightness and enhance the overall taste.

Served in a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This makes for an impressive presentation and adds texture to each bite.

Accompanied by Salad

• A simple green salad can balance the richness of the soup. Opt for a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors without overpowering them.

With Cheese Toasts

• Cheesy toasts topped with mozzarella or provolone make a delicious side. They add a crunchy element that pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.

How to Perfect Tuscan Sausage Soup

To ensure your Tuscan Sausage Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use high-quality sausage: Choose spicy Italian sausage for the best flavor. Fresh sausage enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Don’t skip the sautéing: Sautéing onions and garlic brings out their sweetness. This step adds depth to your broth.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Incorporate more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and texture in your soup.
• Let it simmer longer: If time allows, let the soup simmer on low heat longer. This will deepen the flavors even more.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Sausage Soup

When serving Tuscan Sausage Soup, consider pairing it with some delightful side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread offers buttery goodness that pairs well with creamy soups.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a light side dish that enhances Italian flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and additional nutrients to your meal while complementing the soup’s flavors.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent appetizer alongside your main dish.
6. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes can soak up the soup’s broth beautifully and add a unique texture to your meal.
7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers variety and stimulates appetite before enjoying the soup.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served with crisp tortilla chips is another delightful option that pairs well with Tuscan flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tuscan Sausage Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the sausage: If you cook the sausage too long, it can become tough. Aim for 5-6 minutes until browned, then remove it from the pot to keep it tender.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Underseasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving, as flavors develop during cooking.

• Not cutting potatoes uniformly: Unevenly sized potatoes may cook at different rates. Ensure all pieces are about 1-inch to achieve uniform tenderness.

• Skipping the cream: Omitting the heavy cream will drastically change the texture and flavor. For that rich, creamy broth, remember to include it!

• Using old kale: Wilted or yellowing kale won’t have the vibrant flavor and texture you want. Choose fresh, bright green kale for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Tuscan Sausage Soup can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Allow soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Tuscan Sausage Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave space in containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Tuscan Sausage Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered oven-safe dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. This ensures even heating.

• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tuscan Sausage Soup?

Tuscan Sausage Soup is a hearty Italian dish featuring spicy sausage, potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth. It’s perfect for warming up on chilly days.

Can I make Tuscan Sausage Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Tuscan Sausage Soup in advance. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Tuscan Sausage Soup?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream while maintaining some creaminess.

How do I customize my Tuscan Sausage Soup?

You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition or adjust spice levels by using mild sausage if desired.

Is Tuscan Sausage Soup gluten-free?

This recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check labels when purchasing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan Sausage Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy meal on its own or paired with crusty bread, this recipe allows for easy customization with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try!