Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and low-carb soup that can be prepared in just one pot? This Keto Tuscan Soup is a delicious, keto-friendly version of the classic “Zuppa Toscana” that’s popular at Olive Garden. Rich in flavor and creamy in texture, this soup is the perfect option for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet, while still being satisfying enough to please everyone around the table.
With savory Italian sausage, nutrient-packed kale, and a creamy broth, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. The recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, so you can enjoy a comforting, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Keto Tuscan Soup
This Keto Tuscan Soup is full of rich flavors thanks to the Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy cream. The kale adds a fresh, hearty texture, while the chicken broth brings everything together into a warm, savory dish. Even though it’s low-carb, the soup is incredibly filling and makes for a great meal on its own or paired with a light side salad. The one-pot preparation also means less cleanup, which is always a bonus!
Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a healthier version of a classic, this soup delivers on all fronts. The combination of flavors creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for colder weather but equally enjoyable year-round.
Ingredients for Keto Tuscan Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this low-carb Keto Tuscan Soup:
- 3 lb (1.4 kg) Hot Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and sliced
- 12 cups chicken broth
- 1 bunch kale, de-stemmed and sliced thin
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy soup that’s packed with flavor, protein, and nutrients. The use of heavy whipping cream ensures a creamy consistency without the need for high-carb thickeners, while the Italian sausage adds a spicy, savory depth that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the kale.
How to Make Keto Tuscan Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the hot Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Sauté the sausage until it’s completely cooked through and browned, about 8-10 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pot, drain it before moving to the next step.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Once the sausage is cooked, add the chopped onion to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion has softened. Next, stir in the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and a bit of salt and pepper. Sauté everything together for another 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Step 4: Add the Kale
After the soup has simmered for 15 minutes, it’s time to add the kale. Stir in the thinly sliced kale and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the kale begins to wilt and soften. The kale not only adds color and texture but also provides a boost of vitamins and minerals, making this soup both delicious and nutritious.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Finally, stir in the heavy whipping cream and bring the soup back to a simmer. The cream gives the soup its signature rich, velvety texture. Allow the soup to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the cream is fully incorporated.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and, for an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Keto Tuscan Soup
Use Fresh Kale
Fresh kale is the best choice for this soup, as it holds up well during cooking and adds a nice texture. Make sure to de-stem the kale before slicing it thinly to avoid any tough, fibrous pieces.
Customize the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder soup, you can swap out the hot Italian sausage for a mild version. Alternatively, you can adjust the heat level by adding some red pepper flakes to the soup if you like it spicier.
Choose the Right Cream
Using heavy whipping cream ensures that the soup remains keto-friendly while providing a luxuriously creamy consistency. You can also use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative, but be aware that it will alter the flavor slightly.
Meal Prep Friendly
This soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better with time. If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Just note that the cream may separate slightly upon thawing, so you might want to stir in fresh cream after reheating.
Why This Keto Tuscan Soup Is Perfect for Low-Carb Diets
Not only is this soup incredibly flavorful and satisfying, but it’s also perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet. By removing high-carb ingredients like potatoes and using kale and heavy cream instead, this soup keeps the net carb count low while still being rich and filling.
The Italian sausage provides a good source of protein and healthy fats, while the chicken broth and kale give the soup a boost of essential vitamins and minerals. This soup is also highly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use mild Italian sausage if you prefer a less spicy version. You can also use turkey sausage for a leaner option, but make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed.
Is this soup dairy-free?
The soup can be made dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream. Just keep in mind that coconut cream will give the soup a slightly different flavor.
How long can I store the soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, store the soup without the cream, then add the cream after reheating for the best texture.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a keto-friendly bread or a side salad for a light and balanced meal. You can also enjoy it on its own for a comforting, low-carb dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Tuscan Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle. It’s loaded with flavor from the Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic, while the kale and chicken broth provide a healthy dose of nutrients. The addition of heavy cream gives it a creamy texture that makes it feel indulgent, even though it’s completely keto-friendly.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this one-pot soup is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful of this hearty, comforting dish!