Tuscan Soup with Bacon, Beef, Sausage, Spinach, and Kale

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish to warm you up on a chilly day, this Tuscan Soup with Bacon, Beef, and Sausage is sure to hit the spot. Packed with savory flavors from crispy bacon, ground beef, and Italian sausage, along with fresh greens and a rich creamy broth, this soup is perfect for dinner or any time you want something filling and satisfying.

Ingredients for Tuscan Soup:

• 1 Pound Bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 Pound Ground Beef
• 1 Pound Italian Sausage
• 2 Teaspoons Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 Cup Heavy Cream
• 8 Medium Potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 Small Bag Fresh Spinach
• 1 Small Bag of Fresh Kale (optional; you can use all spinach or all kale if you prefer)
• 1 Medium Onion, chopped
• 3 Tablespoons Minced Garlic
• 1 Quart Chicken Broth (add water as needed to reach desired consistency)

Instructions To Make Tuscan Soup:

1. Fry the Bacon:

Start by cutting your bacon into bite-sized pieces. Heat a large pot over medium heat and fry the bacon until it’s crispy and golden. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.

2. Cook the Meats:

In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook the meats, breaking them up as they cook, until they’re browned and fully cooked through. This will add a ton of flavor to the base of your soup.

3. Add the Onions and Garlic:

Toss in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Drain the Grease:

Once the meats and veggies are cooked, drain any excess grease from the pot (but keep some for the flavor!).

5. Add Broth and Potatoes:

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the quartered potatoes. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

6. Add the Greens and Cream:

Once the potatoes are cooked, it’s time to add the greens. Toss in the spinach and kale (if using), and let them wilt down for a couple of minutes. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes until the greens are tender and everything is well-mixed.

7. Finish and Serve:

Finally, stir in the crispy bacon that you set aside earlier, and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more red pepper flakes if desired. Your soup is ready to serve! Enjoy it hot with some crusty bread or on its own as a filling, flavorful meal.

This Tuscan Soup combines all the rich, savory flavors of bacon, sausage, and beef, balanced by the creaminess of the heavy cream and the earthiness of the greens. It’s a complete meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Plus, it’s easy to make, filling, and perfect for meal prep!

Tips and Variations:

• For a vegetarian version, skip the meats and add extra vegetables, like carrots and celery, to boost the flavor.
• Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• If you want an extra kick, throw in a chopped jalapeño along with the garlic!

Serving Suggestions:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve this soup alongside a warm, crusty baguette or rustic sourdough for dipping. The bread soaks up the rich broth beautifully.
• Top with Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and richness to the soup.
• Pair with a Salad: Serve a light, crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette on the side for a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
• With Garlic Bread: For an even more indulgent meal, serve with a side of garlic bread. The flavors complement each other perfectly.

Enjoy!

This Tuscan Soup is everything you need for a cozy meal on a cold day—comforting, flavorful, and nourishing. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media with us!