“`html
If you’re craving a bowl of cozy comfort with layers of savory, creamy, and hearty flavors, the Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. This beloved copycat version brings together spicy Italian sausage, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and vibrant kale in a luscious broth enriched with cream. It’s the kind of soup that warms your soul and makes you feel like you’re dining at a favorite Italian restaurant—even when you’re just curled up at home. Once you try this recipe, it quickly becomes a go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the flavor—the ingredients for this soup are straightforward but totally essential. Each component plays a crucial role: the sausage and bacon bring that smoky, savory punch; potatoes add comforting texture and mild earthiness; kale offers a fresh green bite; and the cream ties everything together into a rich, velvety finish.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Use spicy or mild based on your preference to build the soup’s meaty base.
- 4 slices bacon, chopped: Adds a smoky crunch and depth of flavor that complements the sausage.
- 1 onion, diced: Provides sweetness and aromatic foundation for the broth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, savory kick that wakes up the flavors.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup’s liquid, infusing it with rich, savory notes.
- 1 cup water: Keeps the broth balanced and light enough to enjoy every spoonful.
- 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced: Tender and comforting, they soak up flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups kale, chopped: Adds color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness that contrasts nicely with cream.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the luscious, silky texture that makes this soup unforgettable.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat to balance the creaminess.
How to Make Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Bacon
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat, then add your Italian sausage and chopped bacon. Cook everything until the sausage is browned and the bacon gets nice and crispy—this step builds a flavorful base with those wonderful meaty aromas. Once cooked, drain any excess fat so the soup doesn’t get greasy but keeps all that deeper flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
To the pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook them gently until the onions become translucent and soft, and the garlic releases its intoxicating fragrance. This step layers in sweetness and that signature savory punch that makes every spoonful complex and satisfying.
Step 3: Add Broth, Water, and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then toss in those thinly sliced potatoes. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and ready to melt in your mouth. This simmering stage lets the broth absorb the comforting potato flavor.
Step 4: Wilt the Kale
Next, stir in the chopped kale. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes tender but still vibrant green. The kale adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that balances out the creamy and hearty elements wonderfully.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Seasoning
Last but not least, pour in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little optional heat. Simmer the soup for another couple of minutes so the cream warms through and the seasoning blends perfectly. This finishing touch gives the soup its signature rich, velvety character.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Your Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe is now ready to enjoy. Ladle it into bowls and get ready for that delightful mix of flavors and textures that feels just like a warm Italian hug.
How to Serve Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your soup experience. Consider a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a nutty finish or a few extra red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick. A small drizzle of olive oil or a torn basil leaf can add a fresh pop of flavor and beautiful color that invites you to dive right in.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs perfectly with some crunchy garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of the creamy broth. A light side salad with vinaigrette is also a great option to balance this hearty meal, while roasted vegetables can complement the soup’s robust flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the soup in mini bread bowls for a rustic, charming presentation. You can also ladle it over a bed of cooked pasta or serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a cozy, kid-friendly combo. Whatever way you choose to serve it, this Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe never fails to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup reheats beautifully, making it a perfect candidate for leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and meld overnight, so leftovers can be even better the next day.
Freezing
If you need to keep this soup longer, freezing is a great option. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that kale may become a bit softer after freezing, but the overall flavor remains fantastic. Avoid freezing with the heavy cream added—cool the soup first, then stir in cream after thawing and reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Add any cream after reheating if you froze it without it for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option that still delivers good flavor, though the soup’s richness will be a bit lighter. Choose spicy or mild turkey sausage to keep flavor balance.
Is it okay to substitute kale with another green?
You can swap kale for spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just add them toward the end of cooking as they wilt faster and have a milder taste, which changes the soup’s character slightly but still pairs well.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Keep in mind this will give the soup a different flavor and texture but still remain deliciously creamy.
How spicy is the Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe?
The recipe’s base is mildly spicy thanks to the Italian sausage, but you can adjust the heat with red pepper flakes or choose a milder sausage to suit your taste buds perfectly.
What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?
Thin slices work best here—they cook through quickly and evenly, meld smoothly into the broth, and offer a pleasant tender bite without overwhelming the other textures.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try the Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe. It’s a recipe that’s simple to make yet feels like a special treat every time. From the rich sausage and smoky bacon to the fresh kale and creamy broth, it’s a bowl of happiness that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo. Trust me, once you make it, this soup will hold a special place in your heart and kitchen rotation.
“`
Print
Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring Italian sausage, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and nutritious kale simmered in a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this easy-to-make soup balances savory flavors with a touch of spice and creaminess.
Ingredients
Meat & Protein
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups kale, chopped
Liquids & Dairy
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook sausage and bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage and chopped bacon until they are browned and crispy. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being too greasy.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them until the onion is softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add broth, water, and potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the thinly sliced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Incorporate kale: Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the kale wilts and becomes tender.
- Add cream and season: Pour in the heavy cream and season the soup with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to your taste. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to blend flavors and heat through.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish as desired, such as with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
Notes
- You can substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level to your preference.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding the cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
