If you’re craving a hearty, soul-warming soup that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in a flash, you have to try this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe. It’s a comforting Italian-inspired classic made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, combining savory sausage, tender potatoes, vibrant kale, and a creamy broth that feels like a big, delicious hug. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or an Instant Pot enthusiast, this recipe promises a perfect bowl every single time, packed with layers of taste and texture that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your family ask for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of ingredients, this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe showcases how simplicity can lead to an incredibly satisfying meal. Each component is carefully chosen to bring balance, from the spicy kick of Italian sausage to the creamy, velvety finish that rounds out the dish beautifully.
- Olive oil: The base for sautéing, adding a subtle richness and helping brown the sausage perfectly.
- Italian sausage (1 pound): Adds savory depth and a touch of spice; casing removed for easy browning.
- Onion (1 large, chopped): Provides sweetness and aromatic foundation to the soup’s flavor.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Brings bold fragrance and a classic punch to the broth.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon): Just the right amount of heat to wake up your taste buds.
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): A perfect herb blend to enhance the overall Italian vibe.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) and black pepper (½ teaspoon): Essential seasonings to bring out the best in every bite.
- Potatoes (4 medium, cubed): Russet potatoes work best for that hearty, tender bite that soaks up flavors well.
- Chicken broth (6 cups, low- or no-sodium): The warm, comforting liquid base that ties all ingredients together.
- Kale (4 cups, chopped): Adds freshness, color, and a nutritional boost to the soup.
- Half and half or heavy cream (1 cup): Gives the soup its luscious creaminess and smooth texture.
- Optional garnishes: Grated Parmesan cheese and bacon bits elevate the final presentation with extra flavor and crunch.
How to Make Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe
Step 1: Browning the Sausage and Sautéing Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heating the olive oil. Add the sausage and cook it until it browns beautifully, releasing those rich, savory aromas. Then, mix in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and become wonderfully fragrant. This combination lays the flavor groundwork for the soup. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to infuse a tantalizing array of spices right from the start.
Step 2: Cooking the Potatoes and Developing the Broth
Next, toss in the cubed potatoes and pour the chicken broth over everything. Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes to let the potatoes finish cooking gently. Follow this with a quick release to safely let out any remaining steam. This step ensures the potatoes are tender but not falling apart, creating the perfect texture contrast in your soup.
Step 3: Adding Kale and Cream for the Finishing Touch
After releasing the pressure, switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode and stir in the chopped kale. Cook just until the kale wilts but still retains its lovely green color and slight bite. Pour in the half and half or heavy cream and mix well, stirring until the soup reaches a creamy, luxurious consistency. This step transforms the broth into a velvety dream that makes this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 4: Serving Warm and Garnished
Finally, press “Cancel” to turn off the Instant Pot. Ladle the soup into bowls and top it with your favorite optional garnishes like grated Parmesan or crispy bacon bits. These finishing touches add layers of flavor and texture that make every spoonful a delight. Get ready to enjoy a steaming bowl of warmth and comfort that feels like a hug from Tuscany itself.
How to Serve Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe
Garnishes
The best part about serving this soup is how easily you can customize it with garnishes. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty depth, while crispy bacon bits bring that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor. For a touch of freshness, a few torn kale leaves or a drizzle of olive oil on top can create a beautiful finish that’s both tasty and visually appealing.
Side Dishes
This Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a crusty baguette or warm garlic bread creates the ultimate comfort food meal. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can lighten things up if you want balance. For extra indulgence, serve alongside creamy polenta or a cheese platter for a complete Italian-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for color contrast. If you want to impress guests, serve in mini bread bowls to make the experience interactive and fun. You could also layer it with thin slices of lemon zest or a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle twist on the classic presentation. No matter how you present it, this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe will steal the spotlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the soup taste even better the next day. When storing, leave out the cream and kale if you plan to reheat later and add fresh kale and cream at the time of serving to maintain texture and creaminess.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months, but keep in mind that cream and kale don’t freeze perfectly. For best results, freeze only the soup base (sausage, potatoes, broth) and add fresh kale and cream after thawing and reheating. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to keep it fresh and avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Once heated through, stir in fresh kale and cream, and cook until the kale is wilted and the soup is creamy again. This way, your Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe will taste just like the first time you made it.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage can be a leaner alternative and still provide great flavor. Just make sure to choose a well-seasoned variety to keep that savory punch.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sauté mushrooms and lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it meat-free.
Can I use regular cream instead of half and half or heavy cream?
Regular cream works well and makes the soup decadently rich, but if you prefer a lighter option, half and half is a great choice without compromising too much on creaminess.
How do I adjust the spice level?
If you like your soup spicier, add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage. For a milder version, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes entirely.
Can I make this recipe on the stove instead of an Instant Pot?
Definitely! Brown the sausage and sauté aromatics in a large pot, then add potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until potatoes are tender, add kale, and finish with cream. It will take longer, but the flavors are just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of comfort food while being impressively easy and quick to make. It’s the kind of meal that welcomes you home, warms your spirit, and keeps you coming back for more. Don’t hesitate to dive in, gather your ingredients, and enjoy making this flavorful soup part of your regular meal rotation—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana is a hearty and comforting Italian-inspired soup packed with savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines robust flavors with effortless cooking using the Instant Pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed (russet potatoes recommended)
- 6 cups low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cups chopped kale (1 small bunch)
- 1 cup half and half or heavy cream
Optional Garnishes
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Bacon bits
Instructions
- Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned all over. Then stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is softened and translucent. Add red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine the flavors.
- Pressure Cook the Potatoes and Broth: Add the cubed potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select Manual or Pressure Cook on high for 5 minutes. After the cooking cycle ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Add Kale and Cream: Switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until it wilts and becomes tender, about 3-5 minutes. Then pour in the half and half or heavy cream and stir to combine and heat through.
- Finish and Serve: Press “Cancel” to turn off the Instant Pot. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or bacon bits, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, flavorful Zuppa Toscana.
Notes
- Russet potatoes work best for this recipe as they hold their shape and create a creamy texture.
- Use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- For a richer soup, use heavy cream; half and half will lighten the fat content.
- Allowing the pressure to release naturally helps the potatoes finish cooking perfectly.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
