Indulge in the undeniable comfort of a warm bowl of soup, particularly when it's the hearty and flavorful Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana.
This Italian-inspired culinary masterpiece has won the hearts of many with its rich broth, tender potatoes, spicy sausage, and hearty kale.
Fortunately, you can recreate this delightful dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Copycat Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana will transport your taste buds straight to Tuscany.
This soup is known for its creamy medley of tender potatoes, Italian sausage, and kale steeped in a rich, spicy broth.
This soup has become a staple on our menu and for good reason.
This crafted copycat recipe allows you to bring the warmth and flavor of this Italian favorite right to your kitchen.
Whether you're following a gluten-free, keto, or Whole 30 diet, substitutions like cauliflower for potatoes or coconut milk for heavy cream ensure that this beloved dish can be enjoyed by all.
Embrace this recipe to savor the taste of Italy without stepping out the door.
Ingredients to make Zuppa Toscana
At the heart of this delicious recipe, you'll find chicken broth and heavy cream, which serve as the foundation for a creamy broth that envelops every spoonful.
Mild Italian sausage and russet potatoes add hearty substance, making the soup a full meal in itself.
Kale, introduced towards the end, offers a nutritious burst of green, complementing the savory flavors with its freshness.
For those of you navigating dietary restrictions, the original components can be adjusted. Swapping potatoes with cauliflower and opting for coconut milk instead of cream cater to keto and dairy-free lifestyles without sacrificing the soul-warming essence of this Tuscan soup.
This array of ingredients, when melded on medium heat, recreates the Olive Garden classic, inviting the taste of Italy right into our kitchens.
How to make Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana
In a large pot on medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break apart the sausage and cook until browned.
Stir in the onion and saute for 3-5 minutes or until tender and translucent.
Add your butter and stir until melted.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
Add potatoes to the pot followed by the chicken broth and water. Stir to combine.
Increase the heat to allow the liquid to come to a low boil for 5-6 minutes.
Stir in the kale leaves.
Cover and decrease heat to allow the soup to simmer for 10 additional minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Stir in the heavy cream.
Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
A few notes
- If using “hot” Italian sausage, you may consider leaving out the crushed red pepper and tasting before deciding if you want it spicier.
- If using salted chicken broth and/or salted butter, taste before adding the salt to see if it’s needed.
- If you are utilizing a slow cooker or an instant pot sauté the sausage, onion, and garlic on the stove top, then transfer into your chosen device.
Serving Suggestions for Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Recipe
We found that serving this delectable Zuppa Toscana soup alongside homemade garlic bread or Olive Garden's renowned breadsticks enhances the dining experience.
The addition of these sides transforms the meal, providing a perfect blend of flavors.
To elevate the soup's taste further, consider topping it with crispy bacon, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and a dash of red pepper flakes.
These garnishes not only add a pleasant texture contrast but also introduce a delightful kick to the creamy broth.
Whether enjoyed as a heartwarming starter or a main course, this soup promises a satisfying and nutritious option for any occasion.
Storing and Reheating Tips
After savoring every spoonful of the creamy, comforting Zuppa Toscana, it's not uncommon to have leftovers.
We ensure these delicious remnants don't go to waste.
The best practice involves keeping the soup in an airtight container. This method helps preserve its rich flavors, whether stored in the fridge or freezer.
There's a little secret we've discovered: this soup often tastes even better the next day. As the ingredients meld together overnight, the depth of flavors intensifies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zuppa Toscana spicy?
Yes, Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana has a bit of spice due to the inclusion of Italian sausage and red pepper but if you prefer less spicy you can use mild sausage and less or no red pepper.
Can I freeze homemade Zuppa Toscana?
While the potatoes may change texture slightly after freezing, you can freeze Zuppa Toscana. Allow it to cool before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to eat.
Copycat Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 ½ tablespoons garlic minced
- ½ onion finely diced
- ¼ cup butter unsalted
- 4 cups chicken broth unsalted
- 5 cups water
- 4 medium russet potatoes peeled and chopped into bite sized pieces
- 1 bunch kale large stems removed and chopped
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Optional garnish: shredded parmesan cheese and extra crushed red pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot on medium heat, add Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break apart sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in onion and saute for 3-5 minutes or until tender and translucent.
- Add butter and stir until melted.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
- Add potatoes to the pot followed by chicken broth and water. Stir to combine.
- Increase heat to allow the liquid to come to a low boil for 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in kale leaves.
- Cover and decrease heat to allow the soup to simmer for 10 additional minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream.
- Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
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