Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup
Introduction:
Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup is a comforting and hearty dish inspired by the flavors of Tuscany. This rich and velvety soup combines tender kale, Italian sausage, and potatoes in a creamy broth infused with garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a bowl of cozy comfort, this soup is both satisfying and easy to make. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving some of the rendered fat in the pot for added flavor.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Potatoes:
- Pour in the chicken broth, and add the diced potatoes, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add Kale and Cream:
- Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and heat through for another 5 minutes.
- Finish with Parmesan:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper if desired. Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Outro:
This Creamy Parmesan Tuscano Soup is a delightful blend of hearty ingredients and rich flavors, perfect for any time you need a little warmth and comfort. The combination of Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and kale in a creamy Parmesan broth creates a soul-satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it as a main course or a starter, and enjoy a taste of Tuscany right at home!