If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, soul-warming soup that’s low in carbs but rich in flavor, this Keto Tuscan Soup is a must-try. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with savory goodness in every spoonful. Inspired by classic Zuppa Toscana, this version skips the potatoes and uses wholesome keto-friendly swaps without sacrificing that iconic taste. Perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a quick and satisfying meal, this one-pot wonder comes together in about 30 minutes—yes, it’s that fast and easy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Keto-Friendly and Guilt-Free: All the creamy, indulgent flavor with none of the carbs. A perfect addition to your low-carb meal plan.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum comfort—what more could you want on a busy night?
- Big, Bold Flavors: Between the savory sausage, garlic, and rich broth, this soup hits every flavor note just right.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight superstar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this deliciously creamy Keto Tuscan Soup to life:
- Italian sausage: Adds a punch of flavor and richness; opt for spicy if you like a little kick.
- Garlic: Essential for building a deep, aromatic base—don’t skimp on it.
- Onion: A small amount brings sweetness and depth without too many carbs.
- Chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup—use a good quality, low-sodium broth.
- Heavy cream: This makes the soup luscious and velvety. Coconut cream can be used if dairy-free.
- Cream cheese: Helps thicken the broth and adds a touch of tangy richness.
- Cauliflower florets: The perfect low-carb stand-in for potatoes, they soak up all the amazing flavor.
- Kale: Brings a beautiful pop of green and a slight earthy bite—spinach is a good backup if kale isn’t your thing.
- Parmesan cheese: For that final salty, nutty finish that rounds everything out.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and sausage—choose extra virgin for best flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste—be sure to season in layers as you go.
Variations
- Add Bacon: A few crispy bacon bits tossed in at the end take this soup to the next level.
- Swap the Greens: Not into kale? Baby spinach or Swiss chard are great alternatives and soften more quickly.
- Make it Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for serious heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cream cheese or skip it altogether.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and load up on mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu for a meat-free twist.
How to Make Keto Tuscan Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Broth and Cauliflower
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add cauliflower florets and cook until just tender—about 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese, mixing until fully melted and combined into the broth.
Step 5: Add Kale and Simmer
Toss in the chopped kale and simmer for another 5 minutes, or until wilted and tender.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Cut the Cauliflower Small: This helps it cook quickly and mimic the texture of potatoes even better.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: It melts faster and more smoothly into the broth.
- Don’t Overcook the Kale: Keep it just tender—overcooked kale can become bitter and mushy.
- Make It Thicker: If you want a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes after adding the cream cheese.
How to Serve
This Keto Tuscan Soup is a meal on its own, but here’s how to make it even more enjoyable:
Garnishes:
Top with extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-style finish.
Side Dish Ideas:
Serve with a slice of keto garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad for a truly satisfying low-carb dinner.
As an Appetizer:
Serve smaller portions before a main dish like grilled chicken or baked salmon.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better as it sits!
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully—just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the sausage and aromatics first, then add all ingredients except kale, cream, and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, add the final ingredients in the last 30 minutes.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely. All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just be sure your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, frozen cauliflower works well. No need to thaw first—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I meal prep this soup?
Definitely! Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. It holds up beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Tuscan Soup is everything you want in a cozy, satisfying bowl—creamy, flavorful, and completely low-carb. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, impressive enough for company, and endlessly customizable. If you’re craving comfort food that fits your keto goals, this soup is the answer. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with every bite!
Keto Tuscan Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and creamy Keto Tuscan Soup packed with savory sausage, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a low-carb, comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil), chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese if using, adjust seasoning as needed, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach if preferred.
- For extra richness, add a bit more Parmesan or cream.
- This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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