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Zuppa Toscana Casserole

Comforting Zuppa Toscana Casserole for Hearty Family Dinners

Discover the cozy flavors of Zuppa Toscana Casserole, a hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 8 ounces Bacon Adds salty flavor and crunch; reserve some grease for cooking.
  • 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage Provides depth and richness; cook and crumble before adding.
  • 2 large Russet Potatoes Creates a hearty base and texture; thinly slice for even cooking.
  • 1 medium White Onion Adds aromatic flavor; substitute with any onion variety if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Paste Enhances the richness of the dish with savory notes; fresh garlic can also be used.
  • 2 cups Kale Adds nutritional value and a pop of color; remove stems and chop leaves.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Flour Helps thicken the sauce; all-purpose flour is standard, but alternatives could be used if needed.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Serves as the liquid base for the sauce; can use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Creates a rich, creamy sauce; substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binding agent in the sauce; ensure it's tempered before adding.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds umami and creaminess; can mix in mozzarella for additional meltiness.

Equipment

  • 9x13 Baking Dish
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Grease the bottom of the baking dish and layer thinly sliced russet potatoes across the bottom.
  3. Crumble the cooked Italian sausage and spread it evenly over the potato layer, followed by crispy bacon pieces.
  4. In a skillet, heat reserved bacon grease and sauté diced white onions and garlic paste until onions are translucent.
  5. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally for about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Stir in flour and cook until lightly browned; gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously until sauce thickens.
  7. Incorporate heavy whipping cream and temper the beaten egg before adding it back to the skillet. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese.
  8. Pour the sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and meat in the baking dish.
  9. Cover with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes. Remove foil to expose the top and bake until golden.
  10. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese over the casserole and bake uncovered for an additional 25-30 minutes.
  11. Cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Feel free to mix in mozzarella with the Parmesan for a delightful stretch and different flavor profile.

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