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Zuppa Toscana Casserole

Zuppa Toscana Casserole: Creamy Comfort for Family Dinners

This Zuppa Toscana Casserole is a creamy, hearty dish that transforms classic Italian soup into a family-friendly dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 8 oz Bacon Reserve 1/4 cup bacon grease for cooking.
  • 1 lb Ground Italian Sausage Cooked, crumbled, and drained before layering.
  • 7 cups Russet Potatoes Thinly sliced, even layering is key for even cooking.
  • 1 small White Onion Peeled & diced, any onion variety can be used if white is unavailable.
  • 2 tbsp Garlic Paste Fresh minced garlic can be a substitute.
  • 6 cups Kale Chopped and stems removed, can substitute with spinach if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup Flour Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
  • 1-1.5 cups Heavy Whipping Cream Milk can be used for a lighter version, though it will be less creamy.
  • 1 large Egg Beaten & tempered, omit for a dairy-free option.
  • Salt & Pepper Enhances overall flavor to taste.
  • 1.5 cups Parmesan Cheese Divided, a mix of mozzarella can enhance cheesiness.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • skillet
  • 9x13 baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
  2. In a 9x13" baking dish, layer the thinly sliced russet potatoes to create a sturdy base.
  3. Spread the cooked Italian sausage and crispy bacon over the potato layer evenly.
  4. In the skillet with reserved bacon grease, sauté the diced onion and garlic paste for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  5. Add the chopped kale and stir until it wilts down, then sprinkle in the flour.
  6. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to the skillet, simmering until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  7. Stir in the heavy whipping cream to create a rich, creamy sauce.
  8. Temper the beaten egg by mixing in a small amount of the hot cream mixture, then slowly combine back into the skillet.
  9. Mix in half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth, then pour over the layered casserole ingredients.
  10. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes.
  11. Remove the foil, sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 25-30 minutes.
  12. Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the casserole to rest before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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