Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup: A Comforting Italian Classic
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 4 cups kale (roughly chopped)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and cooked through (about 7-8 minutes). Remove sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot. - Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Simmer the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth, diced potatoes, oregano, thyme, and cooked sausage. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. - Add the Cream and Kale
Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and chopped kale. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the kale wilts and becomes tender. - Finish with Parmesan
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. - Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan, and serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a silky, luxurious broth.
- Italian Sausage: Adds a savory depth of flavor and spice to the dish.
- Kale and Potatoes: Provide a hearty, nutritious base that makes this soup filling and satisfying.
- Perfect for Cold Weather: A warming, comforting soup ideal for fall and winter meals.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 4g