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Italian Zuppa Toscana Casserole

Italian Zuppa Toscana Casserole

This Italian Zuppa Toscana Casserole turns the classic creamy sausage, potato, and kale soup into a cozy baked dinner with golden cheese on top—perfect for weeknights and make-ahead meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

Casserole Base
  • 1 lb Italian sausage mild or hot
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups russet potatoes thinly sliced
  • 2 cups kale stems removed and chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
Cheese Topping
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Casserole Dish
  • Large skillet
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Add olive oil to the skillet (if needed). Sauté onion until soft, 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  4. Add sliced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes begin to soften.
  5. Stir in cooked sausage, chopped kale, and heavy cream. Cook 2 minutes until everything is well combined.
  6. Pour mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  7. Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 minutes more, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
  8. Rest 10 minutes before serving to help the casserole set. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

Tip: Slice potatoes thinly for even baking. For extra richness, add an extra 2–3 tablespoons Parmesan before the final uncovered bake. Swap kale for spinach if you prefer a milder green.