Spicy Tuscan Comfort Soup
Indulge in a bowl of Spicy Tuscan Comfort Soup, a delightful twist on the beloved Zuppa Toscana. Bursting with flavors, this soup is made with spicy Italian sausage that infuses the broth with warmth, while tender potatoes provide heartiness. Smooth almond and coconut milk create a creamy base that remains light yet satisfying. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and nutrient boost, making this dish a perfect option for a cozy dinner. Even without bacon, every spoonful is a testament to flavor and comfort. Top it off with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan for an irresistible finish. This recipe is not just a meal, it's a warm embrace in a bowl.
N/A
Servings
288
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
spicy italian ground sausage
1 lb (crumbled)
butter
4 tablespoons (melted)
white onion
1/2 (diced)
minced garlic
1 tablespoon (minced)
chicken broth
6 cups (liquid)
water
2 cups (liquid)
yellow potatoes
4-5 (cut into 1-inch pieces)
salt
3 teaspoons (to taste)
black pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
heavy cream
2 cups (liquid)
chopped spinach
4 cups (fresh)
parmesan cheese
for topping (grated)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, heat the sausage over medium-high heat while crumbling it with a spatula. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2
Add the butter to the same pot and let it melt. Once melted, add the diced onions and sauté over medium heat until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the diced potatoes along with salt and black pepper. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 10-15 minutes.
4
Gradually stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream, followed by the cooked sausage. Allow the soup to heat through, and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper if desired.
5
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For an added kick, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or dried Italian herbs before serving.
Nutrition Information
16g
Fat
20g
Carbs
15g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Tuscan Comfort Soup?
Spicy Tuscan Comfort Soup is a hearty and flavorful twist on the classic Zuppa Toscana, featuring spicy Italian sausage, yellow potatoes, fresh spinach, and a creamy broth base.
What are the main ingredients in this soup?
The primary ingredients include spicy Italian ground sausage, butter, white onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, yellow potatoes, heavy cream, and chopped spinach.
How long does it take to brown the sausage?
The sausage should be cooked and crumbled for approximately 5 to 6 minutes over medium-high heat until it is browned and cooked through.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, while the recipe calls for spicy Italian sausage for its warmth and flavor, you can substitute with mild or sweet Italian sausage if you prefer less heat.
What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 4-5 yellow potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces, for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape.
How many calories are in a serving of this soup?
Each serving contains approximately 288 calories.
Is Spicy Tuscan Comfort Soup gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this soup is naturally gluten-free; however, always check the labels on your sausage and chicken broth to ensure no gluten additives are present.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
The description suggests that almond and coconut milk can be used to create a creamy base, though the official ingredient list specifies heavy cream.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for the best results.
Can I freeze Spicy Tuscan Comfort Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it, but be aware that cream-based soups may separate slightly when thawed. Reheat slowly while stirring to recombine.
What is the prep for the garlic?
You should use 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
How much liquid is required for the broth?
The recipe requires a combination of 6 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water.
Can I add bacon to this recipe?
While this specific version is designed to be delicious without bacon, you can certainly add cooked, crumbled bacon as a topping or during the cooking process.
What greens can I use instead of spinach?
Kale is a popular traditional alternative to spinach in Tuscan-style soups. Just ensure it is chopped and simmered until tender.
Is this recipe similar to Zuppa Toscana?
Yes, it is described as a delightful twist on the beloved Zuppa Toscana, emphasizing comfort and spice.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Add the garlic after the onions have become translucent and cook for only one minute until it becomes fragrant.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 15 grams of protein in each serving of the soup.
How much spinach do I need?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of fresh, chopped spinach added at the end of the cooking process.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
The recipe uses a mix of both; using only water may result in a less flavorful base, so chicken broth is recommended for depth.
What kind of onion is recommended?
The recipe specifies using 1/2 of a white onion, diced.
How should I serve the soup?
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients except the cream and spinach in the slow cooker. Add those in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What is the fat content per serving?
The soup contains 16 grams of fat per serving.
What if I do not have butter?
You can use olive oil or avocado oil to sauté the onions and garlic if butter is unavailable.
How spicy is this soup?
The heat comes primarily from the spicy Italian sausage; you can control the spice level by choosing a milder sausage or adding more red pepper flakes.
How do I know when the potatoes are cooked?
The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender, which usually takes between 10 to 15 minutes of simmering.
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, adding dried Italian herbs before serving is recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
What is the carbohydrate count for this soup?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and an easy recipe, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
While the exact serving size is not specified, the recipe uses 1 lb of sausage and 8 cups of total liquid, making it a substantial meal for a family.