Zuppa Toscana, a beloved dish from the Olive Garden, is a hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and crisp kale in a creamy broth. With its robust taste and warming qualities, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a taste of Italy at home. What’s more, this copycat recipe allows you to recreate that signature flavor in your own kitchen, bringing a piece of restaurant magic to your dining table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely fall in love with this Zuppa Toscana copycat recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity. The spicy Italian sausage brings warmth, while the creamy broth and tender vegetables create a satisfying, comforting dish. This recipe is not only easy to prepare in under an hour, but it also caters perfectly to family gatherings or meal prep for the week. The wholesome ingredients fit well into a balanced diet, making it a nourishing option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Zuppa Toscana even better, consider these tips:
- Use fresh kale for the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find kale, Swiss chard is a great substitute.
- For extra flavor, sauté the sausage until it’s nicely browned before adding the other ingredients.
- You can make the soup ahead of time and let the flavors meld overnight in the refrigerator for an even richer taste.
- Adjust the cream to your liking—reduce for a lighter soup or add more for a decadent finish.
Make Ahead Tips
For optimal meal prep, you can prepare several components of Zuppa Toscana ahead of time:
- Cook the sausage and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before making the soup.
- Chop the potatoes and store them in water to prevent browning for up to 24 hours.
- Wash and chop the kale and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days.
- The soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations of Zuppa Toscana:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Replace the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for extra nutrition and flavor.
- For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or hot sausage.
How to Serve
Serve your Zuppa Toscana hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Presentation matters—consider serving in rustic bowls to enhance the homey feel of this comforting dish.
Pairing Suggestions
For the perfect drink pairing, a glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy soup beautifully. Alternatively, serve with a light beer or a refreshing iced tea. As for sides, a simple mixed green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully, while a slice of tiramisu makes for an indulgent dessert to round out the meal.
How to Store
To store leftovers, cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup has thickened, you may want to add a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven to make this Zuppa Toscana. A wooden spoon for stirring and a sharp knife for chopping will also come in handy. If you prefer a slow cooker, you can adapt the recipe for that method as well, using the same ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions:
- To make it vegan, use plant-based sausage and substitute coconut milk for cream.
- For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk and skip the cheese.
- If you’re nut-free, ensure any plant-based cream alternatives are safe for your needs.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, you can use fresh kale and new potatoes for a lighter take on this dish. During fall and winter, consider adding seasonal vegetables such as butternut squash or pumpkin to enhance the flavors and nutrition profile.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of sausage?
Yes, chicken works well, though you may want to add extra seasonings to enhance the flavor.
How long does it take to cook?
The total time is about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the sausage and broth you use are gluten-free.
How To Make Zuppa Toscana – Olive Garden Copycat
Zuppa Toscana - Olive Garden Copycat
Zuppa Toscana, a beloved dish from the Olive Garden, is a hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and crisp kale in a creamy broth.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 4 large russet potatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Add the chopped kale and heavy cream to the pot. Stir well and let simmer for another 5 minutes.
Season with crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 648Total Fat 38gSaturated Fat 17gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 93mgSodium 1584mgCarbohydrates 53gFiber 6gSugar 7gProtein 24g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this Zuppa Toscana recipe offers not just a satisfying meal but also a delightful cooking experience. With its rich flavor and comforting ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor each spoonful of this warm, hearty soup. Whether you share it with loved ones or keep it all for yourself, this recipe is a reminder that good food brings people together. Happy cooking!
