There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm soup on a chilly evening, right? When I first discovered this Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) recipe, it felt like uncovering a hidden treasure in my kitchen repertoire. The rich, savory flavors of Italian sausage mingling with creamy potatoes and bright greens create a symphony in a single bowl. It’s the kind of meal you could whip up on a lazy Sunday or serve proudly at a dinner gathering.
This soup has become my go-to for those nights when I’m craving something hearty yet simple. The beauty lies in its versatility—whether you’re soothing a busy weeknight or trying to impress guests, this dish is surprisingly easy to master. With each spoonful, you’re met with the delightful crunch of kale and a hint of crisp bacon. Trust me, it doesn’t get much better than this! So, let’s dive into the recipe and turn your kitchen into a cozy Italian eatery—your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Zuppa Toscana a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth that envelops you with each bite, this soup is like a hug in a bowl. Hearty ingredients blend effortlessly, offering a delightful mix of sausage, creamy potatoes, and fresh greens. Quick prep and cook time make this recipe a winner for weeknight dinners. Impress your guests with a dish that’s both cozy and elegant—perfect for gatherings. And don’t forget the irresistible crunch of bacon bits garnishing this masterpiece! For even more soup inspiration, check out our ultimate soup guide.
Zuppa Toscana Ingredients
• A delightful foundation for comfort in a bowl!
For the Soup
- Ground Italian sausage – adds rich, savory flavor that’s essential for a hearty Zuppa Toscana.
- Garlic cloves – bring a fragrant aroma that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
- White onion – offers sweetness and depth; be sure to dice it finely for even cooking.
- Yukon Gold potatoes – their creamy texture holds up beautifully in the soup without falling apart.
- Chicken stock – the base of your soup; opt for low-sodium to control the saltiness.
- Chopped fresh kale – adds color, nutrition, and a delightful crunch in every spoonful.
- Heavy whipping cream – brings a luscious creaminess that beautifully balances the savory elements.
- Fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper – essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Cooked bacon – crumbled on top, it provides a smoky crunch that elevates your Zuppa Toscana experience!
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a beloved dish that pleases any palate; let’s get cooking!
How to Make Zuppa Toscana
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Cook sausage in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces. Once ready, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.
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Sauté onions in the reserved grease for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become soft and translucent, adding depth to your soup.
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Add garlic and continue to sauté for 1 minute, allowing the fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen. Make sure to stir often to prevent sticking.
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Combine potatoes and stock by adding the diced Yukon Gold potatoes and chicken stock to the pot. Stir in the cooked sausage, and bring the mixture to a simmer, watching it closely.
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Simmer gently by reducing the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
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Incorporate kale and cream by stirring in the chopped fresh kale and heavy whipping cream. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors beautifully.
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Season to taste with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper. Serve the Zuppa Toscana warm, garnished with crispy bacon bits for that irresistible finish.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful dip!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Zuppa Toscana?
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to create a comforting meal experience. Pair it with delightful sides and drinks for a culinary adventure.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect accompaniment for dipping, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal. Freshly baked ciabatta or sourdough pairs particularly well!
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and zesty dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. Garnished with Parmesan, this salad adds a touch of elegance.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these delightful treats enhance the Italian vibe and serve as perfect vehicles for absorbing every drop of creamy soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies with olive oil and herbs, then roast until caramelized. Their earthy flavors complement the soup beautifully and add vibrant color to the plate.
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Red Wine: A glass of bold Chianti or fruity Merlot elevates your meal, enhancing the Italian essence. The tannins beautifully balance the creaminess of the soup.
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Homemade Biscotti: Treat yourself to a sweet finish with Italian almond biscotti. Their crunchy texture and subtle sweetness make for an inviting dessert after the savory soup.
Serve up these delightful pairings to elevate your Zuppa Toscana experience!
How to Store and Freeze Zuppa Toscana
Fridge: Store any leftover Zuppa Toscana in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: You can freeze Zuppa Toscana for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. Add a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess, and stir in fresh kale before serving for that vibrant touch.
Expert Tips for Zuppa Toscana
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Sausage Selection: Choose a high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Sweet or spicy variants can give your Zuppa Toscana a unique twist.
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Potato Peeling: Leave the skins on Yukon Gold potatoes for added nutrients and texture. Rinse well to remove any dirt before dicing.
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Creamy Consistency: For an extra creamy soup, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding the kale and cream. This creates a luxurious base.
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Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Season with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process to ensure your Zuppa Toscana is well-balanced.
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Slow Cooking Option: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer. This deepens flavors beautifully, making for an even more comforting dish.
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Kale Alternatives: As a substitute for kale, try spinach or Swiss chard; just add them in the last minute of cooking to keep them vibrant and fresh.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Zuppa Toscana ahead of time is a game changer for busy weeknights! You can cook the sausage, sauté the onions, and prep the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate each component separately to maintain their quality, and this prevents the potatoes from browning. When you’re ready to serve, combine the sautéed ingredients with the chicken stock and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the kale and cream last, simmering for about 5 minutes until heated through. This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of Zuppa Toscana with minimal effort, giving you more time to savor the moment with your loved ones!
Zuppa Toscana Customizations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own delicious masterpiece!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage to give your soup a zingy heat.
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Meat-Free: Swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or omit meat entirely for a lighter version that still packs flavor.
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Added Greens: Mix in Swiss chard or spinach if you can’t find kale; just add these leafy greens in the last minute of cooking for freshness.
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Extra Creamy: For a richer texture, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or blend in some cream cheese.
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Different Potatoes: Opt for russet or red potatoes instead of Yukon Golds; just be aware that they might fall apart more easily.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese just before serving for an added layer of umami flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in a diced carrot or celery to the onion and garlic mixture for a delightful crunch and extra nutrients.
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Herb Infusion: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant touch—perfect for enhancing the cozy feeling of this soup!
Now, get ready to enjoy the delightful aroma of your kitchen as you customize your Zuppa Toscana!
Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right potatoes for Zuppa Toscana?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a creamy texture that holds up beautifully in soups. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes, ensuring they are fresh and ready to shine in your soup!
What’s the best way to store leftover Zuppa Toscana?
You can store leftover Zuppa Toscana in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Zuppa Toscana for up to 3 months! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. For best results, label your containers with the date for easy tracking.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after cooking?
Very good question! If you find your Zuppa Toscana too thick, simply stir in a bit more chicken stock or heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. A splash of liquid can breathe new life into your soup while maintaining that creamy texture you love!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, be aware that this recipe contains dairy from the heavy cream and bacon, which may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free option like coconut cream, and for a vegetarian version, use veggie sausage and omit the bacon.
How can I adjust the spice level in my Zuppa Toscana?
Great question! If you prefer a milder soup, choose sweet Italian sausage, or if you like it spicy, opt for hot Italian sausage. You can also add red pepper flakes during the cooking process for an extra kick. Start with a small amount (1/4 teaspoon) and adjust to your taste!
Zuppa Toscana Olive Garden Copycat: Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook sausage in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces. Transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.
- Sauté onions in the reserved grease for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and continue to sauté for 1 minute, stirring often.
- Combine potatoes and stock by adding the diced Yukon Gold potatoes and chicken stock to the pot. Stir in the cooked sausage, and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer gently by reducing heat to medium-low. Cook for 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Incorporate kale and cream by stirring in the chopped fresh kale and heavy whipping cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season to taste with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper. Serve warm, garnished with crispy bacon bits.