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zuppa toscana recipe.

 


Zuppa Toscana Recipe (Olive Garden Copycat)

Zuppa Toscana is a creamy Italian soup made with sausage, potatoes, kale, and a rich broth. Popularized by Olive Garden, this hearty soup is comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-style bowl of Zuppa Toscana in under an hour.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make authentic homemade Zuppa Toscana with step-by-step instructions and pro tips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • A one-pot dinner that’s quick and comforting.
  • Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor.
  • Family-friendly and budget-friendly.
  • Perfect for cold nights, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ingredients for Zuppa Toscana

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 4–5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups fresh kale, chopped (stems removed)
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon & Sausage

  1. In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, cook sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Build the Soup Base

  1. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until fragrant.
  2. Stir in potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

3. Add Cream & Kale

  1. Stir in heavy cream and chopped kale.
  2. Simmer for another 5 minutes, until kale softens.

4. Finish & Serve

  1. Stir in cooked bacon.
  2. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Zuppa Toscana

  • Use spicy Italian sausage for extra flavor.
  • Slice potatoes thinly so they cook evenly.
  • Substitute spinach if kale isn’t available.
  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks.
  • Pair with a fresh Caesar salad.
  • Add a glass of Italian white wine for a cozy dinner.

Storage

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze without cream for up to 2 months; add cream when reheating.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop — avoid boiling to keep cream smooth.

FAQs about Zuppa Toscana

1. What does Zuppa Toscana mean?
It translates to “Tuscan Soup” in Italian.

2. Is this the same as Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana?
Yes, this recipe is a copycat version with the same creamy, savory flavors.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

4. Can I make Zuppa Toscana in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook sausage first, then add all ingredients (except cream and kale) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, then stir in cream and kale before serving.

5. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a unique twist and extra nutrition.

You May Also Like

  • [Minestrone Soup Recipe]
  • [Chicken Gnocchi Soup]
  • [Italian Wedding Soup]
  • [Creamy Tomato Basil Soup]
  • [Lasagna Soup Recipe]

👉 This homemade Zuppa Toscana is creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavor — just like Olive Garden’s version! Try this easy recipe tonight for a cozy Italian-inspired meal.


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