Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe – Creamy, Hearty & Easy!

Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana is a creamy, flavorful Italian soup that’s perfect for any season. Known for its rich broth, savory sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant kale, this soup delivers the comfort of a warm, homemade meal in a fraction of the time. With the magic of the Instant Pot, you can prepare this delicious soup quickly, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. This Zuppa Toscana recipe is just as hearty as the traditional version, but with the convenience and ease that comes with using an Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe ?

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and heat the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in about 1/2 cup of the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will add flavor to your soup and prevent the “burn” error on the Instant Pot.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Return the cooked sausage to the Instant Pot. Add the diced potatoes, the rest of the chicken broth, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Pressure Cook
Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release.

Step 5: Stir in Kale and Cream
Carefully open the Instant Pot lid. Add the chopped kale and stir until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Variations:

• Vegan Zuppa Toscana: Use plant-based sausage or omit the sausage entirely, substituting with mushrooms or tofu. Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Spicy Zuppa Toscana: For a spicy kick, use spicy Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Loaded Zuppa Toscana: Add crumbled bacon for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Cooking Note:

For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes after pressure cooking, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. You can also use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. Pair it with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the soup just before serving for added flavor.

Helpful Tips:

• If you like a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the kale and cream.
• You can use frozen kale if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.
• For extra flavor, cook the sausage with some fennel seeds or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.

Related Recipes :

• Creamy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe
• Easy Mushroom Gravy Recipe 
• Simple & Tasty Chicken Breast Dinner Inspiration
• Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

FAQs:

Can I make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time?

Yes! You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer. Italian sausage is traditional, but you could also use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based alternative.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic on the stove, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the kale and cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion:

This Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana is a perfect recipe for busy families, cozy dinners, or meal prepping. With its creamy texture, savory sausage, and fresh kale, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. And the best part? You can prepare it in no time with the help of your Instant Pot, making it an easy and delicious dish to serve any day of the week. Enjoy!

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