Olive Garden Style Zuppa Toscana Soup
Bring the taste of your favorite Olive Garden restaurant straight to your kitchen with this comforting copycat Zuppa Toscana soup recipe! Made with hearty Italian sausage, tender potatoes, fresh kale, and a rich, creamy broth, this classic Tuscan soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~350 kcal
Ingredients (Authentic Italian Copycat Version)
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium if preferred)
2 cups water
2 large Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup kale, chopped (fresh, stems removed)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions: How to Make Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)
1. Brown the Sausage
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until fully browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add Aromatics
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and continue sautéing until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Build the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the thinly sliced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Add Cream & Kale
Stir in the heavy cream, chopped kale, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, just until the kale is wilted and flavors are blended.
6. Season and Serve
Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and garnish with extra red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
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