Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup


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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

Leave a Comment