Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Olive Garden-inspired Zuppa Toscana Soup brings all the flavors you love from the restaurant right to your kitchen. With a savory mix of Italian sausage, hearty potatoes, and fresh kale, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of ingredients. The creamy texture adds an indulgent feel without being overwhelming, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 cup chopped kale
• 3 tbsp heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside, reserving the cooking liquid.
2. Sauté the diced onion in the same pan for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken stock, bring to a boil, and add the sliced potatoes. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes become tender.
4. Stir in the kale, heavy cream, and the cooked sausage. Season with salt and pepper, and add red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat.
5. Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Zuppa Toscana: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the soup an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or simply use extra vegetables like mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian alternative.
• Creamier Soup: Add more heavy cream or use half-and-half for a richer texture.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets for a lower-carb option while maintaining a similar texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for quick reheating.

FAQs

How long can I store leftover Zuppa Toscana soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana soup?

Yes, you can freeze Zuppa Toscana soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make Zuppa Toscana in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and sauté the onion and garlic, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or another non-dairy cream alternative. Use a dairy-free sausage if needed.

What kind of sausage should I use for Zuppa Toscana?

Italian sausage is traditional, but you can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use turkey sausage.

Can I use kale substitutes in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute kale with spinach or Swiss chard. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How do I make this soup spicier?

You can add more red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even some diced jalapeños to increase the spice level.

Can I use other types of potatoes in Zuppa Toscana?

While russet potatoes are the most common, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture or flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors meld together even better after a day or two.

What should I serve with Zuppa Toscana?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana Soup is the ultimate comfort food. With its rich, creamy broth, savory sausage, and tender potatoes, it’s an easy and delicious meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this soup will warm hearts and satisfy appetites. Enjoy making this recipe at home, and feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste!