This Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) is a delightful, hearty soup perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. With its rich broth, tender potatoes, and zesty Italian sausage, it’s sure to warm both body and spirit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory sausage with creamy broth and fresh vegetables.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish in just 40 minutes.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of spicy sausage, garlic, and kale creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Meal Option: Great as an appetizer or main course; this Zuppa Toscana suits any meal setting.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time! It freezes well and tastes even better the next day.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) experience as smooth as possible, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-haves:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large stockpot
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large stockpot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while providing enough space to combine all ingredients.
- Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked sausage without excess grease, ensuring a flavorful dish.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (I recommend spicy)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
- 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 5 to 6 cups chicken stock
For the Creamy Finish
- 2 to 3 cups chopped fresh kale
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper
For Garnish
- 6 pieces bacon, cooked and crumbled
How to Make Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Cook sausage in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a separate plate. Reserve 1 tablespoon of grease in the stockpot for later use and discard any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté Veggies
Add diced onions to the stockpot with reserved grease. Sauté for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Next, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add diced potatoes and chicken stock into the pot along with the cooked sausage. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Finish with Kale and Cream
Stir in chopped kale and heavy whipping cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through. Season with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve your Zuppa Toscana warm, garnished with crumbled bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.
Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness that channels the heart of Italian cuisine right at home!
How to Serve Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)
Zuppa Toscana is a delightful and hearty soup that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve with a warm, crusty loaf of bread for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the creamy soup perfectly.
Topped with Grated Parmesan
- Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. It melts beautifully into the hot soup.
Accompanied by a Side Salad
- A crisp side salad can balance the richness of Zuppa Toscana. Consider a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top right before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
With a Splash of Lemon Juice
- A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors in the soup, enhancing its zesty profile.
Paired with Wine
- Pair Zuppa Toscana with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to elevate your dining experience.
How to Perfect Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)
To make your Zuppa Toscana truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
Use Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Spicy sausage adds an excellent kick.
Choose Fresh Kale: Fresh kale gives the soup a vibrant color and better texture compared to frozen options.
Adjust Creaminess: Control the creaminess by adjusting the amount of heavy cream based on your preference; feel free to use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Simmer Longer: Letting the soup simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just be careful not to overcook the potatoes!
Season Generously: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking; salt and pepper can greatly enhance the overall taste.
Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
Best Side Dishes for Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)
Zuppa Toscana pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.
Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing offer a nice contrast to the soup’s texture.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side option.
Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables brings an Italian touch to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add flavor and nutrition while being easy to prepare alongside the soup.
Focaccia Breadsticks: Soft focaccia sticks are delightful when dipped into Zuppa Toscana.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites provide an elegant touch and pair well with Italian flavors.
Polenta Cakes: Crispy polenta cakes offer a unique twist that complements the creamy soup nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong type of sausage: Not all sausages have the same flavor. Opt for spicy Italian sausage for an authentic taste that enhances the dish.
- Overcooking the potatoes: If you cook the potatoes too long, they may become mushy. Keep an eye on them and ensure they’re tender but firm.
- Skipping the seasoning: A bland soup is disappointing. Season generously with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process to elevate the flavors.
- Neglecting to wilt the kale: Adding kale too late can leave it tough. Stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking for optimal tenderness.
- Rushing the simmering process: Simmering allows flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step; let your soup simmer gently for at least 15 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow soup to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container, as liquid expands when frozen.
Reheating Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)?
Zuppa Toscana is a hearty Italian soup made with sausage, potatoes, kale, and cream. This recipe mimics the beloved version from Olive Garden.
Can I make Zuppa Toscana vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I customize my Zuppa Toscana?
Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers! You can also adjust the spice level by choosing mild or spicy sausage.
Is Zuppa Toscana good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in both refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spices. Try it today and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness that feels like a hug in a bowl!
Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)
Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) is a heartwarming Italian soup that brings the cozy, rich flavors of Tuscany right to your kitchen. This creamy concoction features tender potatoes, zesty Italian sausage, and vibrant kale, all simmered together in a savory broth. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground spicy Italian sausage
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 5-6 cups chicken stock
- 2-3 cups chopped fresh kale
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 pieces cooked bacon, crumbled for garnish
Instructions
- In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion in reserved grease for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in potatoes and chicken stock along with the cooked sausage. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Mix in kale and heavy cream. Simmer briefly until heated through and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, garnished with crumbled bacon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
