Description
This Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana recipe is a hearty and comforting Italian-inspired soup featuring savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, fresh kale, and a creamy broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, this flavorful soup combines a perfect balance of spices and creamy texture, making it an ideal meal for chilly days or whenever you’re craving a warm, satisfying bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or spicy)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Main Soup Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes, cubed
- 6 cups low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cups chopped kale (about 1 small bunch)
- 1 cup half and half or heavy cream
Optional Garnishes
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Bacon bits
Instructions
- Sauté Sausage and Vegetables: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks, and brown it thoroughly. Then stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become softened and fragrant. Next, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper; stir to incorporate all the flavors.
- Pressure Cook: Add the cubed russet potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select Manual or Pressure Cook on High Pressure, and set the timer for 5 minutes. Once cooking completes, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to vent any remaining pressure.
- Add Kale and Cream: Switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode and add the chopped kale. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the kale has wilted and softened. Finally, stir in the half and half or heavy cream until the soup is rich and creamy.
- Serve: Press “Cancel” to turn off the Instant Pot. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and crispy bacon bits if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use spicy Italian sausage or increase the red pepper flakes.
- Russet potatoes work best as they absorb flavors well and soften nicely without falling apart.
- Kale can be substituted with spinach or Swiss chard if preferred.
- To reduce calories, use half and half instead of heavy cream or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
