Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage and garlic creates a savory base that’s both satisfying and delicious.
- Hearty and Comforting: With tender potatoes and fresh kale, this soup offers a comforting and filling experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have this restaurant favorite ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3–4 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups chopped kale
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: crumbled bacon and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a separate plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the stockpot.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the stockpot and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
- Add Potatoes and Stock: Add the diced potatoes and chicken stock to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Incorporate Kale and Cream: Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
- Different Greens: Replace kale with spinach or Swiss chard for a milder flavor.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the richness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken stock or water to reach the desired consistency.
FAQs
What is Zuppa Toscana?
Zuppa Toscana translates to “Tuscan soup” in Italian. While inspired by traditional Italian ingredients, the version popularized by Olive Garden includes Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, Zuppa Toscana can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Is it possible to freeze Zuppa Toscana?
Due to the presence of dairy and potatoes, freezing may alter the soup’s texture. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the cream and adding it fresh when reheating.
How can I make this soup healthier?
To lighten the soup, use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, and increase the amount of kale or add other vegetables like zucchini or carrots.
What type of potatoes work best in this recipe?
Russet potatoes are commonly used due to their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup. However, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used for a creamier consistency.
Can I use a slow cooker to make Zuppa Toscana?
Yes, to make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic first. Then, combine all ingredients except the cream and kale in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream and kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What can I serve with Zuppa Toscana?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or breadsticks and a fresh side salad.
How can I thicken or thin the soup?
To thicken the soup, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid or mash some of the potatoes in the pot. To thin it, add additional chicken stock or water until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
Is there a dairy-free option for this soup?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a nut-based cream to make the soup dairy-free. Be aware that this may slightly alter the flavor
Zuppa Toscana
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Zuppa Toscana, the beloved Italian-inspired soup made famous by Olive Garden, features savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a creamy broth. This hearty and comforting dish is easy to prepare at home and perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3–4 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups chopped kale
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add Potatoes and Stock: Pour in the chicken stock and add diced potatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Incorporate Kale and Cream: Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes until the kale is wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
Notes
- For extra spice, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Substitute kale with spinach or Swiss chard for a milder taste.
- Use turkey sausage and half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
