Tuscan Sausage and Zucchini Comfort Soup
Indulge in the warm, rustic flavors of our Tuscan Sausage and Zucchini Comfort Soup, perfect for chilly days and cozy nights. This hearty soup is crafted with savory Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich beef broth that creates a delightful symphony of taste in every spoonful. Easy to prepare in your slow cooker, it allows the ingredients to blend harmoniously while you go about your day. Pair it with crusty Italian bread for a satisfying meal that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany.
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mild Italian sausage
1 pound (4 (4-ounce) links, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds after browning)
Celery
1 stalk (diced)
Zucchini
3 medium (thinly sliced)
Onion
1 small (chopped)
Beef stock
3 cups (liquid)
Tomato sauce
1 (8-ounce) can (canned)
Fresh basil
2 teaspoons (chopped, or use 1/2 teaspoon dried basil)
Salt
to taste (seasoning)
Pepper
to taste (seasoning)
Parmesan cheese
to taste (grated or Romano cheese as an alternative)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausages on all sides until fully cooked. Remove them from the skillet and allow them to cool slightly before slicing into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
2
If using turkey Italian sausage, apply non-stick cooking spray or a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
3
Pour off any excess fat from the skillet and add the diced celery, thinly sliced zucchini, and chopped onion.
4
Sauté the vegetables for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
5
In a large crockpot, combine the beef stock, tomato sauce, and fresh or dried basil.
6
Add the cooked sausage along with the sautéed vegetable mixture to the crockpot, stirring gently to combine.
7
Cover and cook on LOW for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
8
Once cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
9
Ladle the soup into bowls, and generously garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.
10
Serve your Tuscan soup alongside warm garlic bread or a hunk of rustic Italian bread for a fully satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information
22g
Fat
10g
Carbs
13g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tuscan Sausage and Zucchini Comfort Soup?
It is a hearty, rustic soup featuring Italian sausage, zucchini, and beef broth cooked slowly to allow flavors to meld.
What type of sausage is best for this recipe?
Mild Italian sausage is recommended, typically using 4 links sliced into rounds, but you can also use spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes, turkey Italian sausage is a great alternative; use a little oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking when browning.
How do I prepare the sausage before adding it to the crockpot?
Brown the sausage links in a skillet on all sides, let them cool slightly, and then slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
Should I drain the fat from the sausage?
Yes, you should pour off any excess fat from the skillet after browning the sausage and before sautéing the vegetables.
What vegetables are included in this soup?
The primary vegetables in this recipe are zucchini, celery, and onion.
Do I need to sauté the vegetables before slow cooking?
Yes, sauté the diced celery, sliced zucchini, and chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
How should I slice the zucchini?
The recipe calls for three medium zucchinis to be thinly sliced into rounds.
Can I use canned zucchini for this soup?
Fresh zucchini is highly recommended to maintain the correct texture and flavor in the slow cooker.
What kind of broth is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 3 cups of beef stock to create a rich and savory base.
How much tomato sauce is needed?
The recipe requires one 8-ounce can of tomato sauce.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 2 teaspoons of fresh chopped basil with 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil.
How long does the soup need to cook in the slow cooker?
The soup should be cooked on the LOW setting for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours.
When should I season the soup with salt and pepper?
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste once the cooking process is complete.
What cheese is recommended for garnishing?
Generously garnish the soup with freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheese before serving.
What are the best side dishes for this soup?
It pairs perfectly with warm garlic bread or a hunk of rustic Italian bread.
How many calories are in a serving of this soup?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 13 grams of protein per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 22 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this soup considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is specifically described as a comfort soup designed for chilly days and cozy nights.
Can I add other seasonings to this soup?
While basil is the primary herb, you can add Italian seasoning or garlic if you prefer a more complex flavor profile.
Can I make this soup on a stovetop?
While written for a slow cooker, you can simmer it on the stove over low heat for about 30-45 minutes after browning the meat and veggies.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your sausage and beef stock labels to ensure no hidden gluten.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers.
What if I don't have beef stock?
You can substitute chicken stock or vegetable stock, though the flavor profile will be slightly lighter.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe consists of 10 main ingredients, including seasonings and garnishes.
Is this a good meal-prep recipe?
Yes, because the flavors meld over time, it is excellent for preparing in advance and reheating.
Where does the inspiration for this soup come from?
The recipe is inspired by the rustic and savory flavors of Tuscany, Italy.