Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup is rich, comforting, and loaded with hearty Italian flavors. It’s made with tender kale, savory Italian sausage, creamy potatoes, and a luscious Parmesan-infused broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner!

Yield

Serves 6–8

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups water
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups chopped kale (or spinach for a milder flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread or rolls, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base

1. Add the chicken broth, water, and diced potatoes to the pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Kale and Cream

1. Stir in the chopped kale and cooked sausage. Simmer for 5 minutes until the kale is tender.
2. Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.
2. Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken slightly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic rolls for dipping.

Kitchen Tips

• Use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor or mild sausage for a milder taste.
• For a thicker soup, mash a few of the cooked potatoes before adding the cream.
• Substitute kale with spinach for a milder, more tender green.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

This Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup is a warm, hearty dish bursting with Italian flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave comfort food!