There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to bring comfort to the table, and this Tuscan Sausage and Potato Soup is no exception.
Packed with bold flavors from sausage and pancetta, creamy cannellini beans, and tender potatoes, this slow cooker recipe is as effortless as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or pairing it with a crisp green salad, this rustic soup is sure to satisfy.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup recipe is also known as Tuscan Sausage and Kale soup, and it’s so flavorful, and practically foolproof to make.
- Easy to Make – Just a few simple steps, and the slow cooker does the rest.
- Rich & Flavorful – Sausage, pancetta, and a Parmesan rind add depth to every bite.
- Hearty & Filling – Potatoes and beans make this a complete meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
How to Make Rustic Tuscan Sausage & Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 4 oz. pancetta, cubed
- 2 lbs. bulk mild sausage
- 2 (15-oz.) cans cannellini beans
- 6-7 cups chicken stock, divided
- 1 Tbsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 lbs. Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into small chunks
- 3-inch hard Parmesan cheese rind
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup half and half, tempered
- 3 cups fresh kale, finely chopped
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Tips:
- For a lower-sodium option, drain and rinse both cans of cannellini beans before pureeing one with a little water.
- Temper the half and half by adding a little hot soup liquid to it before stirring it into the slow cooker. This prevents curdling.
Directions
1️ In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the pancetta for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the sausage and brown it, breaking it into small chunks as it cooks. Drain excess fat and transfer to a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Puree one can of cannellini beans (undrained) in a blender or food processor. Drain and rinse the second can. Add both the puree and whole beans to the slow cooker.
3. Add 6 cups of chicken stock, red pepper flakes, garlic, onion, potatoes, and the Parmesan cheese rind to the slow cooker. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.
5. Stir in the tempered half and half, kale, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. If needed, add additional chicken stock to reach your desired consistency. Let the soup sit for 5-10 minutes until the kale softens. Serve warm and enjoy!
What to Serve with Tuscan Sausage and Potato Soup
Pair this soup with a crusty loaf of bread, a simple arugula salad, or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For wine lovers, a glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the rich, savory flavors of the soup.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Refrigeration – Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing – For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. The potatoes may become slightly softer upon thawing, but the flavors will still be delicious.
- Reheating – Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
Recommended tools and Accessories
Want to make this recipe even easier? Here are some must-have kitchen tools to get the job done:
- Slow Cooker – A programmable 6-quart slow cooker lets you set it and forget it.
- Slow Cooker Liners – Make cleanup a breeze with these slow cooker liners.
- Parmesan Rind Substitute – If you don’t have a cheese rind, Parmesan bouillon cubes can add similar depth of flavor.
- Chef’s Knife – A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping onions and potatoes a breeze. This knife set is a great one for the home cook.
- Soup Bowls – Serve your soup in stylish rustic soup bowls for the full Tuscan experience.
Customize this Crockpot Tuscan Sausage and Potato Soup
Looking to switch things up? Try these variations:
- Spicier Version – Use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
- Dairy-Free – Swap the half and half for coconut milk or leave it out entirely.
- Extra Veggies – Add diced carrots or celery for more texture. It’s also a great way to sneak a serving or two of veggies in to your diet.
This Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup is the ultimate cozy, slow cooker meal for chilly nights.
Other Slow Cooker Meals You May Like
- Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli – Make your favorite Chinese food dish at home!
- Crockpot Mexican Shredded Chicken – A great way to make chicken for tacos, burritos, or even fajita wraps.
- Slow Cooker Tequila Hot Toddy – This is perfect for a winter get together.
- Champagne Corned Beef – Give your traditional corned beef a little sumtin-sumtin (pictured above)