Zuppa Toscana – Olive Garden Copycat Recipe: A Delight for the Whole Family

If you love the Zuppa Toscana at Olive Garden, you’ll enjoy this copycat recipe for home just as much! This hearty, creamy soup combines potatoes, spicy Italian sausage, and fresh kale – perfectly rounded out with cream for the ultimate comfort taste. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main course, Zuppa Toscana is an excellent choice for any occasion.

Ingredients for Zuppa Toscana
For 6-8 servings, you will need:

• 450 g Italian sausage (spicy or mild, according to your taste)
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1.5 liters chicken broth
• 200 ml cream (you can also use half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 100 g kale, washed and torn into strips
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
• 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• 2-3 slices of bacon (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparation: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Wash and roughly tear the kale. If you’re using bacon, cut it into small pieces.
2. Sauté the Sausage and Bacon
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked. Break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. If using bacon, add it at the same time and cook until crispy.
3. Cook the Vegetables
   Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
4. Simmer the Soup
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the Potatoes and Kale
   Add the thinly sliced potatoes and kale to the soup. Stir well and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
6. Add the Cream
   Once the potatoes are tender, add the cream (or half-and-half) to the soup. Stir until fully incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste.
7. Final Simmer
   Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
8. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve hot, garnished with extra bacon if desired. Enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors of Zuppa Toscana!

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, Zuppa Toscana tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
   Absolutely! If you prefer a milder sausage or a different flavor, feel free to swap the Italian sausage for another type, such as chicken sausage or turkey sausage.
3. Can I use a different type of greens?
   While kale is traditional in Zuppa Toscana, you can substitute with spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens if you prefer.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and bacon. You can use plant-based sausage or simply add more vegetables for a hearty alternative.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the cream may separate slightly upon freezing, but it can be stirred back in when reheated.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade Zuppa Toscana!