Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana

Elevate Your Dinner Game: Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana

Looking for a hearty and flavorful soup that’s quick and easy to make? Look no further than this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana recipe! Bursting with Italian sausage, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and kale, this comforting soup is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe and warm up with a bowl of Zuppa Toscana goodness!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of Italian sausage, whether it’s mild, hot, or spicy. You can also substitute Italian turkey sausage for a lighter option.

Q: Can I make this soup keto-friendly? A: Absolutely! You can make a keto-friendly version of this Zuppa Toscana by using cauliflower instead of potatoes and replacing the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk.

Q: How long does this soup last in the refrigerator? A: This soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container.

Ingredients:

For the Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana:

  • 1/2 pound thick-cut bacon, diced into lardons
  • 1-2 pounds ground Italian sausage, mild or hot
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 5-6 small potatoes or 2-3 large russets, diced (about 5 cups total)
  • 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chiffonade
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Bacon: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
  2. Brown the Sausage: Add the ground Italian sausage to the Instant Pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove any excess grease if necessary.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Season the Soup: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
  5. Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine.
  6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then do a quick release of the pressure.
  7. Add the Kale and Cream: Once the pressure has released, carefully remove the lid and stir in the chiffonade kale and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
  8. Serve: Ladle the Zuppa Toscana into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the level of heat in the soup. For a milder version, reduce the amount of pepper flakes or omit them altogether.
  • Potato Substitute: If you’re looking to reduce carbs, you can substitute cauliflower florets for the potatoes. Simply add the cauliflower at the same time you would add the potatoes and cook until tender.
  • Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version of this soup, omit the bacon and sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots and celery for added flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

  • Cauliflower Substitute: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce the carb content of the soup. Cauliflower adds a similar texture to potatoes and absorbs the flavors of the soup beautifully.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free and keto-friendly alternative. Coconut milk adds creaminess to the soup without the lactose.

With its rich and savory flavors, this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights or any time you’re craving a hearty meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, it’s a wholesome dish that will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a delicious soup to enjoy with your family, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and elevate your dinner game with this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana!