Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana: A Comforting Italian Classic

Zuppa Toscana, or Tuscan Soup, is a rich and flavorful dish made famous by Olive Garden. This sausage and kale soup is a perfect blend of creamy broth, tender potatoes, and savory Italian sausage, creating a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re a fan of kale soup recipes or looking for delicious sausage soup recipes, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Toscana Soup

This Zuppa Toscana soup is a simple yet hearty meal that’s easy to make at home. It’s budget-friendly, packed with bold flavors, and requires minimal effort. Unlike other kale soup options, this one has a creamy texture that balances the slight bitterness of the kale, making it enjoyable even for those who don’t usually love leafy greens.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 large russet potatoes, sliced thin
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up into crumbles until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the diced onion until soft, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the thinly sliced potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped kale. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
5. Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through but avoid boiling.
6. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or breadsticks.

Prep Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Tips for the Best Sausage Soup

• Use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer extra heat, or mild sausage for a classic flavor.
• For a healthier version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• If you enjoy experimenting with sausage soup recipes, try adding crispy bacon or pancetta for extra depth.
• Inspired by Food Charlatan and other home-cooked favorites, this recipe can be easily adjusted to suit personal tastes.

Conclusion

This Toscana soup is a restaurant-quality dish that you can make in your own kitchen with simple ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of Zuppa Toscana soup, looking for new kale soup recipes, or just want to try a comforting sausage soup, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors and bring a taste of Italy to your table today.