This healthy Zuppa Toscana is a comforting, creamy soup inspired by the classic Italian favorite but made lighter without sacrificing flavor. It’s loaded with tender potatoes, savory Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and fresh kale, all simmered together in a rich, creamy broth that feels indulgent yet balanced.
Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup comes together in one pot and is hearty enough to satisfy the whole family. It delivers bold, familiar flavors while using simple ingredients and an easy cooking method that anyone can follow.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups chopped kale
Instructions
- Place a large pot over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced potatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale. Simmer for 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
- Add the cooked bacon back into the pot, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Course: Soup
How to Store
- Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
- Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based broth.
What Not to Do
- Do not boil the soup after adding the cream, as it may separate.
- Avoid overcooking the kale, or it will become mushy.
- Don’t skip seasoning adjustments at the end—potatoes absorb salt.
Tips & Variations
- Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
- Slice potatoes thinly for quicker, even cooking.
- Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter texture if desired.
Approximate Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~18g
- Fat: ~32g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~2g
Ingredients
Method
- Place a large pot over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced potatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale. Simmer for 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
- Add the cooked bacon back into the pot, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Protein: ~18g
- Fat: ~32g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~2g
Conclusion
This lighter Zuppa Toscana proves that comfort food can still fit into a balanced lifestyle. With wholesome ingredients and satisfying flavors, it’s a nourishing meal that feels indulgent while keeping things simple and homemade.
FAQs
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day. - Can I use milk instead of cream?
The soup will be thinner and less rich, but it can work if gently heated. - What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape nicely. - Is this soup spicy?
Only mildly—omit red pepper flakes for no heat. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, cauliflower or zucchini can be added without changing the base method.
