It is so easy to make Olive Garden’s classic Zuppa Toscana Soup at home! This incredible copycat recipe is even better than the restaurant version and can be made on the stove top or in the crock pot. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner, preparing for a game day gathering, or just craving a comforting bowl of soup, this dish delivers rich flavors and heartwarming goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, creamy broth, and fresh kale creates a delightful taste experience.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in under an hour.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy the flexibility of making this soup on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this soup fits right in.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some must-have items for making your Zuppa Toscana Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even mixing.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
Ingredients
It is so easy to make Olive Garden’s classic Zuppa Toscana Soup at home! This incredible copycat recipe is even better than the restaurant version and can be made on the stove top or in the crock pot!
For the Base
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
For Flavoring
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (can sub Worcestershire sauce)
- 3 tablespoons flour
For the Soup
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3-4 small russet potatoes (about 1 lb.)
- 3 cups kale (roughly chopped)
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon EACH: mustard powder, dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, dried basil
- 1 pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish
- Grated Parmesan
- Roughly chopped bacon
How to Make Zuppa Toscana Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Cook and crumble the sausage in a large soup pot over medium heat until cooked through, about 10 minutes. Reserve 1 tablespoon drippings and set the sausage aside. If you don’t have drippings, you can use an additional tablespoon of butter.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the reserved drippings and butter to the soup pot. Add the diced onions. Cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic, hot sauce, soy sauce, and seasonings; cook for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Add Flour
Stir in the flour continuously for about 2 minutes until there’s no raw flour smell left.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Cream
Gradually add chicken broth in small splashes while stirring continuously. Follow with heavy cream in the same manner. Bring to a boil before reducing to simmer.
Step 5: Prepare Potatoes
Clean potatoes and pat dry. Cut them in half lengthwise then slice into ¼-inch pieces. Add sliced potatoes to the soup along with cooked sausage.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Let it simmer for about 10 more minutes or until potatoes are nearly fork-tender. Stir in chopped kale; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with optional red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan cheese, or chopped bacon before serving! Enjoy your delicious homemade Zuppa Toscana Soup!
How to Serve Zuppa Toscana Soup
Zuppa Toscana Soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve the soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping. A rustic loaf or sourdough complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top provides a burst of freshness and brightens the dish visually.
Garnished with Bacon
- Crispy bacon crumbles add a savory crunch that enhances the overall texture and flavor profile of the soup.
With a Side Salad
- Pair the soup with a light side salad, such as a simple Caesar or mixed greens, for a refreshing contrast.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun twist, serve the Zuppa Toscana Soup in an edible bread bowl. This not only looks appealing but also offers extra deliciousness!
With Cheese Toasts
- Melty cheese on toasted bread makes an excellent accompaniment. Consider using mozzarella or provolone for a gooey addition.
How to Perfect Zuppa Toscana Soup
Perfecting your Zuppa Toscana Soup can make all the difference in taste. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out amazing every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly improve flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for a personalized touch.
- Simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Experiment with sausage: Try different types of Italian sausage (like spicy or sweet) to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Let it rest: Letting the soup sit before serving can enhance its flavors as they develop further over time.
Best Side Dishes for Zuppa Toscana Soup
Pairing side dishes with Zuppa Toscana Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: A classic option that’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons adds a refreshing crunch.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide vibrant flavors.
- Cheesy Biscuit: Flaky biscuits with melted cheese are irresistible when served warm alongside the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed bell peppers make an excellent choice for those wanting something heartier.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until golden brown add both color and nutrition to your meal.
- Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad offers a great textural contrast while enhancing your meal’s heartiness.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges make for a satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with Zuppa Toscana Soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Zuppa Toscana Soup at home can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong sausage: Selecting a low-quality or non-Italian sausage can impact the soup’s flavor. Always choose a good quality Italian sausage for the best results.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly crisp veggies by monitoring cooking times closely.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust spices to your preference.
- Skipping the flour step: Skipping the flour may result in a thinner consistency. Be sure to cook it properly to thicken the soup effectively.
- Not letting it simmer: Rushing through the simmering stage can prevent flavors from developing fully. Give your soup enough time to enhance its flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Zuppa Toscana Soup
- Cool the soup completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last up to 3 months.
Reheating Zuppa Toscana Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Zuppa Toscana Soup that many people have.
Can I make Zuppa Toscana Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I make Zuppa Toscana Soup spicy?
To add more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or include additional red pepper flakes when cooking.
Can I use kale substitutes in Zuppa Toscana Soup?
If you don’t have kale, spinach or Swiss chard can work as tasty alternatives.
What is the best way to serve Zuppa Toscana Soup?
Serve it hot with crusty bread on the side or top it with extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Zuppa Toscana Soup is not only easy to prepare but also offers a comforting taste that warms the soul. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Zuppa Toscana Soup
Discover the comforting flavors of Zuppa Toscana Soup, a beloved dish inspired by Olive Garden. This easy-to-make recipe combines savory Italian sausage, creamy broth, and nutritious kale to create a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends for game day, this rich soup is sure to satisfy. With its delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients, you can whip up this restaurant-style soup on the stovetop or in a slow cooker in under an hour. Get ready to serve up a bowl of warmth that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop or Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3-4 small russet potatoes
- 3 cups kale
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 1 pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook and crumble the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté diced onion in reserved drippings until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Gradually add chicken broth and cream while stirring continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer.
- Add sliced potatoes and cooked sausage back to the pot. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in chopped kale and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with optional garnishes like grated Parmesan or bacon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 945mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
