Hi there! I’m so excited to share my cozy recipe for Crockpot Zuppa Toscana with you. This dish beautifully melds hearty ingredients into a bowl of comforting deliciousness. It takes about six hours on low or three hours on high to cook, making it a perfect set-and-forget meal for busy days. Let’s dive into this beloved Italian soup that will warm your heart and home!

Why This Crockpot Zuppa Toscana is the Best Choice

You’ll fall head over heels for this recipe because:

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage and creamy broth creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy Prep: Simply toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with potatoes and greens, it’s a meal that satisfies.
• Beloved Recipe: This is a copycat of the famous Olive Garden soup, making it a familiar favorite!

Understanding Zuppa Toscana: Origins and Popularity

Zuppa Toscana, or “Tuscan soup,” has its roots in the rustic kitchens of Italy, where simple ingredients were transformed into comforting meals. Notably popularized by Olive Garden, this soup features a delightful blend of spicy sausage, creamy broth, and tender kale. It has become a staple for anyone longing for the warmth of home-cooked goodness.

Sarah

The Ultimate Crockpot Zuppa Toscana Recipe

I'm Sarah, and I'm so excited to share my cozy recipe for Crockpot Zuppa Toscana with you. This dish beautifully melds hearty ingredients into a bowl of comforting deliciousness.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground spicy Italian sausage (mild can be substituted)
• 8 slices smoked beef bacon, diced (divided)
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp flour (cornstarch can replace it)
• 32 oz chicken stock
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 bunch kale a couple of handfuls, de-stemmed and torn into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

• Dutch oven
• heavy-bottomed pot

Method

 

1. Brown the Sausage: Start by heating a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Drizzle a bit of oil, and crumble the sausage as it cooks. Once browned, drain and place it on a plate. This step adds flavor by caramelizing the meat.
2. Crisp the Bacon: In the same pot, fry the diced bacon until it’s crispy. Transfer it to the plate with the sausage, leaving about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot, cooking for about five minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic for the last minute to release its aromatic flavor.
4. Thicken the Broth: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring to combine before pouring in the chicken stock. This will thicken the soup as it cooks.
5. Add the Potatoes: Toss in the diced potatoes, bringing everything to a gentle boil. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked sausage, most of the crispy bacon (save some for topping), heavy cream, and kale. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the kale is wilted.
7. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Top with remaining bacon before serving.

Notes

• Slow Cooker Time: Low for 6 hours or High for 3 hours.
• Uniformity: Cut potatoes into equal 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.
• Texture: Add kale and heavy cream in the last 15 minutes to prevent mushiness and curdling.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Ingredients for Crockpot Zuppa Toscana

Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect bowl of Zuppa Toscana:

• 1 lb ground spicy Italian sausage (mild can be substituted)
• 8 slices smoked beef bacon, diced (divided)
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp flour (cornstarch can replace it)
• 32 oz chicken stock
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 bunch kale (a couple of handfuls, de-stemmed and torn into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Here’s a handy table for substitute options based on dietary needs:

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking in the Crockpot

1. Brown the Sausage: Start by heating a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Drizzle a bit of oil, and crumble the sausage as it cooks. Once browned, drain and place it on a plate. This step adds flavor by caramelizing the meat.
2. Crisp the Bacon: In the same pot, fry the diced bacon until it’s crispy. Transfer it to the plate with the sausage, leaving about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot, cooking for about five minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic for the last minute to release its aromatic flavor.
4. Thicken the Broth: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring to combine before pouring in the chicken stock. This will thicken the soup as it cooks.
5. Add the Potatoes: Toss in the diced potatoes, bringing everything to a gentle boil. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Consider using delicious cheesy mashed potatoes as a side dish if you don’t want to use potatoes in the soup.
6. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked sausage, most of the crispy bacon (save some for topping), heavy cream, and kale. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the kale is wilted.
7. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Top with remaining bacon before serving.

Tips for Success

• Avoid Greasiness: Drain excess grease from the sausage and bacon to keep the soup light.
• Tender Potatoes: Make sure to cut the potatoes uniformly to ensure they cook evenly.
• Creamy Texture: Stir in the heavy cream towards the end to prevent it from curdling.

Variations and Customization Options

Feel free to customize your Crockpot Zuppa Toscana! Here are some ideas:

• Protein Change: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage for a lighter option.
• Vegetable Boost: Add carrots or celery for additional nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or add crushed red pepper.
• Healthier Option: Replace heavy cream with low-fat milk or a blend of half-and-half and broth.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values per serving (about one cup):

This soup delivers a hearty dose of comfort with a good mix of protein, carb, and healthy fats.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If you encounter any issues while making Zuppa Toscana, consider these solutions:

• Hard Potatoes: If your potatoes are too firm, let them simmer longer.
• Greasy Soup: If you’ve added too much fat, skim off grease from the top before serving.

Freezing and Reheating Instructions

To preserve the texture and flavor when freezing:

• Cool Completely: Let the soup cool before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Reheat Gently: Warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to maintain its creamy consistency. Be sure to consume any leftovers within 3-4 days according to safe cold storage guidelines.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Zuppa Toscana with any of the following:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette is irresistible for dipping.
• Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad balances the richness of the soup.
• Cheese: Top your soup with grated Parmesan or mozzarella for added flavor.

User Reviews and Feedback

I would love to hear how your Crockpot Zuppa Toscana turns out! Share your experiences in the comments. Here’s what some readers have said:

• “This recipe is a total lifesaver on chilly nights!”
• “My kids actually ask for seconds. Thanks, Sarah!”

Conclusion

I hope you love making and enjoying this Crockpot Zuppa Toscana as much as I do! It’s the perfect meal for any day, especially when you’re craving comfort and warmth. Feel free to leave me a comment with your thoughts or any questions, and don’t forget to share your creations. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions