This Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup is rich, comforting, and loaded with hearty Italian flavors. It’s made with tender kale, savory Italian sausage, creamy potatoes, and a luscious Parmesan-infused broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Yield
Serves 6–8
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups water
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups chopped kale (or spinach for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crusty bread or rolls, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base
- Add the chicken broth, water, and diced potatoes to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add Kale and Cream
- Stir in the chopped kale and cooked sausage. Simmer for 5 minutes until the kale is tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic rolls for dipping.
Kitchen Tips
- Use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor or mild sausage for a milder taste.
- For a thicker soup, mash a few of the cooked potatoes before adding the cream.
- Substitute kale with spinach for a milder, more tender green.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
This Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup is a warm, hearty dish bursting with Italian flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave comfort food!