Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup is a comforting Italian-inspired dish that fills the kitchen with warm aromas of herbs, slow-simmered sausage, and tender potatoes. Rich yet balanced, this soup combines savory meat, creamy broth, and aromatic vegetables into a deeply satisfying bowl. Ideal for chilly evenings, family dinners, or relaxed weeknight meals, it delivers rustic elegance with minimal effort while remaining hearty and nourishing.
Servings – Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup
Servings: 4–6 servings
This generous batch of Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup is perfect for sharing, leftovers, or make-ahead meal planning.
Time Required for Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 35 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients for Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup
Main Ingredients
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400 g Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
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600 g potatoes, peeled and cut into 2 cm cubes
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1 medium onion (150 g), finely diced
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2 cloves garlic (10 g), minced
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120 g carrots, finely chopped
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1.2 liters chicken stock (low sodium preferred)
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200 ml heavy cream
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30 ml olive oil
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50 g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional but traditional)
Spices & Seasoning
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1 tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp dried rosemary
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½ tsp black pepper
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Salt to taste
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Optional: chili flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup
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Prepare the flavor base:
Begin by heating olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots, then sauté gently for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Meanwhile, stir occasionally to prevent browning. -
Sauté the sausage:
Next, add the sausage meat directly to the pot, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6–8 minutes until well browned. This step builds depth and richness, which is essential for Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup. -
Deglaze the pot:
Then, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir for 30 seconds until aromatic. Deglaze with a small splash of stock, scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom. -
Add liquids and potatoes:
Add the remaining chicken stock along with the diced potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil. -
Simmer slowly:
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart. Meanwhile, the flavors will naturally meld and intensify. -
Finish with cream:
Lower the heat further, then stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to warm gently for 5 minutes. However, avoid boiling at this stage to preserve the silky texture. -
Final seasoning and serving:
Finally, taste and adjust salt and seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting essence of Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup.
Variations of Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup
With Different Meats
Replace Italian sausage with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or pancetta for a lighter yet flavorful variation.
Vegetarian Version
Substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms and white beans. Use vegetable stock and add smoked paprika to mimic savory depth.
Creamier Version
Moreover, blend a portion of the soup before adding cream for a thicker, velvety texture without extra dairy.
Spicier Version
In addition, add Calabrian chili paste or extra chili flakes to enhance warmth and intensity.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
During spring, add baby spinach or kale at the end. In autumn, substitute half the potatoes with butternut squash.
Tips for Perfect Results – Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup
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Use quality sausage:
The sausage defines the soup’s flavor. Choose well-seasoned Italian sausage with fennel for authenticity. -
Control the simmer:
Simmer gently; boiling aggressively can break the potatoes and dull flavors. -
Enhance aroma:
Additionally, finish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh thyme just before serving. -
Storage and freezing:
Store refrigerated for up to 3 days. Freeze without cream, then add it after reheating for best texture. -
Avoid common mistakes:
However, avoid overcooking after adding cream, as it can cause separation and affect mouthfeel.
Why This Soup Stands Out
Classic Tuscan-Style Sausage and Potato Soup offers balance — creamy but not heavy, rustic yet refined. Furthermore, it adapts easily to dietary preferences while maintaining its comforting Italian soul. Whether served with crusty bread or enjoyed on its own, this soup remains a timeless, crowd-pleasing favorite that warms both body and spirit.
