zuppa toscana crockpot recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best zuppa toscana crockpot recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Zuppa Toscana Crockpot Recipe. This hearty and comforting soup has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason. It’s a classic Italian-inspired recipe that’s packed with flavor, tender vegetables, and the perfect balance of creamy broth and savory sausage. I love how this recipe brings everyone together, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Christmas or Easter. My kids adore helping me prepare the ingredients, from chopping the kale to browning the sausage, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!)

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to toss all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work while we’re busy with our day. Plus, this recipe is incredibly healthy and nourishing, thanks to the abundance of veggies and lean protein from the sausage. We’ve enjoyed it for years as a regular family dinner, but it’s also become a go-to recipe for special occasions like holidays and potlucks. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make ahead of time and reheat for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to impress.

Trust me when I say this Zuppa Toscana Crockpot Recipe is a game-changer for any occasion! Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, this recipe delivers in every way. I first discovered this recipe on Pinterest several years ago, and I was immediately drawn to its simplicity and flavor profile. The original recipe called for bacon, but I’ve since swapped it out for sausage – which adds an extra layer of richness and depth to the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to try using other types of sausage or even bacon if you prefer!

Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on your choice of meat. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course with some crusty bread or over rice, or use it as a side dish alongside your favorite pasta or pizza night. The health benefits of this recipe are numerous – from the antioxidant-rich kale to the lean protein from the sausage. Plus, with all those veggies packed into one pot, you can rest assured that everyone will be getting their daily dose of essential nutrients.

As someone who values convenience above all else (hello there, busy mom!) , I love how easy it is to prep this recipe ahead of time. Simply brown your sausage and cook your veggies in advance, then store them in separate containers until you’re ready to assemble the final product. So go ahead – give this Zuppa Toscana Crockpot Recipe a try! With its ease of preparation, endless customization options, and unbeatable flavor profile, I’m confident you’ll be making it again and again.

Crockpot Zuppa Toscana

4.7 from 1966 votes

A hearty and creamy Italian-inspired soup made easy in the slow cooker. This copycat version of the Olive Garden classic features spicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and kale in a rich, savory broth.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 pound mild or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
1 cup heavy cream

For Garnish

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to the slow cooker, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
4Add the diced onion to the skillet with the sausage drippings and cook over medium heat until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker.
6Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker and add the cubed potatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
7Stir everything together, then cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
8About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream.
9Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the kale is wilted and bright green.
10Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
11Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and crumbled bacon if desired.
Serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
6-quart slow cooker
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 1100mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use turkey Italian sausage and substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. The soup thickens as it sits, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

Watch Video Of How Crockpot Zuppa Toscana Works

This Zuppa Toscana Crockpot Recipe has been a staple in our household for years – not just because it’s deliciously comforting but also because it’s ridiculously easy to make ahead of time! One thing that sets this recipe apart is its versatility – whether you serve it as a main course or side dish alongside pasta night.

The health benefits are undeniable too: with all those nutritious veggies packed into one pot (not counting those delicious Italian sausages), everyone will be getting their daily dose of essential vitamins! So don’t hesitate – give this tried-and-true recipe another spin tonight!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Zuppa Toscana

Q: What type of sausage should I use?

I recommend using sweet Italian sausage or Chorizo for their rich flavor and tender texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Yes! Simply substitute bacon with an additional pound of sweet Italian sausage.

Q: How do I store leftover soup?

Allow leftover soup to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.

Q: Can I reheat Zuppa Toscana in a microwave?

No – reheating in the microwave can cause uneven cooking and create an unpleasant texture.

Q: What if I want to serve this soup over rice instead?

No problem! Simply adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

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