This Tuscan soup with sausage is a hearty, creamy dish packed with bold Italian flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal, this one-pot recipe comes together quickly and is sure to impress.

The first time I made this soup, I was looking for something warm and satisfying to serve on a chilly evening. The combination of sweet Italian sausage, tender kale, and creamy broth won me over instantly.

Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also tastes like something you’d find at a cozy Italian bistro.

What’s Inside This Recipe?

My Take on Tuscan Soup with Sausage

What I love most about this recipe is how simple yet flavorful it is. The rich, creamy broth is perfectly balanced with the savory sausage and a hint of garlic. Adding kale gives it a hearty, healthy twist, making it a well-rounded meal in one bowl.

This soup is also incredibly versatile. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes, and it’s forgiving enough for beginner cooks. Whether you’re craving a classic Tuscan-style soup or just looking for a fast and easy dinner option, this recipe is a winner.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy Tuscan soup with sausage:

1 lb sweet Italian sausage (casings removed if needed)
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional tools:

A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot works best for even cooking.

How to Make Tuscan Soup with Sausage

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup ready in no time.

Cook the sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir occasionally until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

Sauté the vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Simmer the broth and potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the sliced potatoes and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Add the sausage and cream

Return the cooked sausage to the pot, then stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to meld.

Stir in the kale

Add the chopped kale to the pot and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until it wilts. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.

Serve and enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top is a great finishing touch!

How to Serve Tuscan Soup with Sausage

This Tuscan soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping.
Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a simple antipasto platter for a cozy Italian-inspired dinner.
If you’re entertaining, consider offering some garlic bread or focaccia on the side. It’s also a great dish to make ahead for a casual lunch with friends.

Storing and Enjoying Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This soup stores and reheats beautifully.

To refrigerate: Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Place the soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat: Warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Top Tips for Customizing Your Tuscan Soup

Swap the kale: If kale isn’t your favorite, you can use spinach or Swiss chard instead. Both will cook quickly and blend beautifully with the creamy broth.
Make it spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Lighten it up: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream if you want a lighter option.
Add more veggies: Diced carrots or celery make great additions to this soup for extra flavor and nutrition.

Your Questions About Tuscan Soup with Sausage Answered

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup is a great make-ahead option. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage?

Absolutely! While the Italian sausage adds a lot of flavor, ground turkey or chicken works well too. You might want to add extra garlic, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes to boost the flavor.

What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?

Thin slices (about ¼ inch thick) work best, as they cook quickly and evenly. A mandoline slicer can make this step even easier!

Can I use a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk or a plant-based cream for the heavy cream. Just note that it may slightly change the flavor and texture of the soup.

Why does the kale need the stems removed?

The stems can be tough and fibrous, so it’s best to stick to the tender leaves for the best texture.

Warm, savory, and so satisfying!

This creamy Tuscan soup with sausage is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and so easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out. Leave a comment below or tag me on social media, I’d love to hear your feedback! And if you’re in the mood for more cozy soups, check out my other recipes for hearty, comforting meals the whole family will love.

Happy cooking!