slow cooker zuppa toscana soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
slow cooker zuppa toscana soup recipe
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The Best slow cooker zuppa toscana soup recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite slow cooker Zuppa Toscana soup recipe. This hearty, comforting soup is a staple in our household, and I just can’t get enough of it. The combination of tender kale, savory Italian sausage, and creamy potatoes is absolute perfection.

My kids love helping me make it, and it’s become a weekly tradition for us to cook it together on Sundays after church. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make in the slow cooker, so you can come home to a warm, delicious meal after a long day.

Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty as the first batch, making it a great option for meal prep or family gatherings. The Zuppa Toscana originated in Italy, where it’s been a beloved comfort food for generations. The name ‘Zuppa’ literally means ‘soup’ in Italian, but this particular variation is named after the Tuscan region where it’s said to have originated.

I’ve adapted the recipe to suit our American tastes, using Italian sausage instead of traditional pork and adding some extra veggies for added nutrition. The result is a flavorful, filling soup that’s perfect for any occasion. One of the things I love most about this recipe is the way the slow cooker does all the work for us.

Simply brown the sausage and onions in a pan, then transfer them to the slow cooker with your choice of veggies and broth. Let the magic happen for a few hours while you’re out running errands or enjoying quality time with your loved ones. When you come home, you’ll be greeted by the most incredible aroma – trust me when I say it’ll be worth waiting for!

This soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to connect with your loved ones over a delicious meal, or to enjoy some much-needed solo time while still feeling nourished and cared for. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just need a quick lunch option for yourself, this slow cooker Zuppa Toscana soup recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana Soup

Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana Soup

4.5 from 1144 votes

This hearty slow cooker Zuppa Toscana soup features spicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and kale in a creamy broth. It is a comforting, hands-off meal that simmers to perfection while you go about your day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Soup Base

1 lb mild or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Finishing Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
3 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles, until browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.
2Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
3Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
4Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5Place the cooked sausage, sautéed onion and garlic, chicken broth, water, cubed potatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the slow cooker.
6Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale.
8Cover and cook on high for 10 to 15 minutes, until the kale is wilted and the soup is heated through.
9Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese.
10Serve hot with crusty bread if desired.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 13g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 1100mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use turkey sausage. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana Soup Works

This slow cooker Zuppa Toscana soup recipe has become an integral part of our household meals – not only because of its rich flavor profile but also because of its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether we’re hosting family gatherings or simply need a comforting meal after a long day at work, this hearty soup never fails to deliver.

So why not give it a try today? Grab your slow cooker and start simmering up some love – your taste buds (and your belly) will thank you!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana Soup

Q: What type of sausage should I use?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using sweet Italian sausage – it adds just the right amount of spice without overpowering the other flavors. If you prefer milder flavors, you can substitute in regular pork sausage or even use ground beef if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this recipe without kale?

A: While kale is an integral part of this Zuppa Toscana recipe, you can definitely omit it if you’re not a fan or if your family isn’t keen on leafy greens.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months – just reheat when needed.

Q: Can I add other veggies besides kale?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like diced bell peppers, sliced carrots, or chopped celery – they’ll all cook down beautifully in the slow cooker.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Unfortunately not – we rely heavily on Italian sausage for flavor and texture in this recipe. However, if you’re looking for vegetarian options, consider substituting in roasted eggplant or zucchini instead.

Q: How long does it take to cook?

A: With minimal prep time required (about 10-15 minutes), this soup cooks slowly over several hours – leaving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy quality time with your loved ones.

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