Save This Instant Pot Pesto Zuppa Toscana delivers a cozy bowl of Italian-American comfort, packed with tender potatoes, hearty sausage, kale, and a swirl of fragrant basil pesto. It is my go-to recipe when I want a crave-worthy soup in under an hour without fussing all day over the stove. The pesto gives this classic a modern, aromatic twist that has made it a permanent fixture at family gatherings.
My family cannot get enough of this soup especially after chilly soccer practices or when I need something both hearty and vibrant without much planning.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage: provides savory depth choose mild or spicy based on your preference and check for high-quality meat with visible herbs
- Yellow onion: adds sweetness and foundation Dice evenly for smooth texture
- Garlic: infuses warmth and brings out classic Italian flavor Choose fresh and aromatic
- Russet potatoes: make the broth creamy and thick Slice evenly for consistent cooking and pick firm potatoes without green spots
- Chopped kale: adds nutrients and a pop of color Look for dark leaves with no wilting
- Sun dried tomatoes (optional): for extra umami Pick oil packed and tender pieces
- Low sodium chicken broth: builds a flavorful but not overly salty base Look for clear golden broth that is MSG free
- Heavy cream: brings silkiness For lighter soup choose high quality half and half
- Basil pesto: swirled in at the end for herby aromatics Use fresh or store bought with real olive oil and basil
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Perfect seasonings for a balanced finish
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): for a touch of heat
- Grated Parmesan cheese: brings it all together Use high quality for nutty complexity
Instructions
- Prepare the sausage:
- Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode Add the Italian sausage Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for about five minutes until it is browned and crumbly Drain off excess fat if needed for a less greasy result
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Add the diced onion to the sausage Cook for two minutes until the onion turns translucent Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for thirty seconds just until you smell it filling the kitchen This helps release all those delicious oils
- Build the base:
- Add the sliced potatoes chopped kale and sun dried tomatoes if you like Pour in the chicken broth Give everything a good stir to distribute the ingredients evenly Sprinkle with salt black pepper and red pepper flakes if you are using them
- Pressure cook:
- Secure the Instant Pot lid Set it to Pressure Cook High Manual for five minutes This quick cooking keeps the potatoes just right not mushy
- Release and finish:
- After cooking is done let the pressure release naturally for five minutes Carefully turn the valve for a quick release and let the remaining steam escape Safely open the lid
- Enrich the soup:
- Stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto Set back to Sauté mode and let the soup gently simmer for two to three minutes only until heated through This blends flavors without letting the cream boil to prevent curdling
- Season and serve:
- Taste for salt and pepper Spoon the soup into bowls and finish each with grated Parmesan cheese and another swirl of pesto if you want extra flavor
Save I always look forward to that first spoonful of pesto swirling through the broth It is the finishing touch that makes this soup truly irresistible My fondest memory is serving this to friends who were convinced homemade soup was too much work One bite changed their minds
Storage Tips
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The soup thickens as it sits so add a splash of broth when reheating Freeze portions without the cream and pesto then add those after thawing for the best texture Reheat on stove or microwave stirring gently so the potatoes keep their shape
Ingredient Substitutions
Try turkey sausage for a lean twist Use white beans instead of sausage for a satisfying vegetarian version Replace kale with baby spinach or even chopped Swiss chard If you want dairy free swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use a dairy free pesto
Serving Suggestions
Offer this soup with a side of crusty gluten free bread Top with extra Parmesan for a richer touch For a brunch centerpiece pair with a crisp green salad and sparkling water
Cultural and Historical Context
Zuppa Toscana means Tuscan soup but this version is inspired by Italian American restaurants in the US Classic versions do not include pesto but adding it brings an herby lift It is a great example of how comforting Old World dishes evolve for modern kitchens
Seasonal Adaptations
Substitute sweet potatoes or butternut squash in fall Add summer zucchini or green beans in warmer months Lighten with a small handful of fresh herbs if you have extra basil or parsley
Success Stories
A friend once brought this to a new mom who said it tasted like a warm hug in a bowl One reader makes double batches to freeze and says it is their family’s most requested soup for busy weeks Kids tend to love the creamy potatoes so I always keep a little extra pesto on the side in case they want more flavor
Freezer Meal Conversion
Cook the base with broth sausage vegetables and seasonings Let cool completely Portion into freezer safe bags or containers without cream or pesto When ready to serve thaw gently and finishing with cream and pesto after heating for best results
Save This soup is such a lifesaver when time is short but you want real comfort The Instant Pot does more than make things faster it helps meld flavors and makes tough greens like kale tender and sweet I always keep a jar of good pesto on hand just for this soup
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute turkey sausage for pork?
Yes, turkey sausage can easily replace pork for a leaner take, maintaining ample flavor.
- → How do I make it vegetarian?
Skip the sausage and add white beans for protein and heartiness while keeping rich taste.
- → What kind of potatoes are best?
Russet potatoes work well for a creamy texture, but Yukon Golds offer slightly firmer results.
- → Is it safe for gluten-free diets?
All ingredients are naturally gluten-free; check stock and pesto labels to confirm.
- → Can I use homemade pesto?
Fresh homemade pesto is excellent here. Adjust pine nuts or cheese for allergy-friendly options.
- → How to keep kale vibrant?
Add kale with potatoes and finish simmering gently to retain color and nutrients.