Name: Zuppa Toscana: Savory, Hearty, and Comforting Delight
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 4 slices bacon (cut into small pieces); 1 pound hot Italian sausage (ground or from links with casings taken off); 1 large yellow onion (chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups chicken broth or stock; 3 cups Russet potatoes (cut into cubes); Sea salt or kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste; 2 cups kale (packed loosely, in bite-sized pieces); 1 cup heavy cream or a can of evaporated milk (14 ounces); Parmesan cheese (grated, for serving)

Olive Garden’s zuppa toscana is a creamy, hearty soup loaded with savory sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale.

The rich, flavorful broth ties all the ingredients together, creating a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.

This recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen with ease.

Read on to find out how to prepare this delicious soup.

Discover the Delights of Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana

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Restaurant-Quality at Home: This copycat recipe lets you enjoy Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana without leaving your kitchen.
Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients like sausage, kale, and potatoes to create a flavorful and hearty soup.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, this soup is perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner.

Discover the Ingredients for Zuppa Toscana

Bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy flavor that enhances the soup’s richness.
Hot Italian Sausage: Provides a savory, spicy kick that balances the creamy broth.
Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup base.
Garlic: Infuses the broth with a savory, aromatic flavor.
Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the soup, adding a savory and comforting richness.
Russet Potatoes: Create a hearty, tender texture that absorbs the flavors of the soup.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Kale: Adds a fresh, slightly earthy bite and a pop of vibrant color.
Heavy Cream: Makes the broth rich and creamy, elevating the overall texture.
Parmesan Cheese: A finishing touch that adds a salty, nutty flavor to the soup.

How to Make Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana

Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Sausage

In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess grease, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Push the cooked sausage to the edges of the pot. Add the diced onion to the center and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes. Season with ¾ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add the Kale and Cream

Stir in the kale and heavy cream (or evaporated milk). Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes, until the kale wilts and the cream is fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Savoring Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana Delight

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Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana is best served piping hot with a side of crusty bread or warm garlic breadsticks for dipping.

Pair it with a light green salad for a complete meal.

The creamy texture and rich flavor also make this soup perfect for a comforting lunch or a dinner party starter.

How to Store Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana?

Store leftover Zuppa Toscana in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.

You can also microwave individual servings.

Avoid freezing the soup, as the potatoes and cream may change texture when thawed.

Creative Twists on Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana

Mild Version: Use mild Italian sausage instead of hot for a less spicy version.
Extra Veggies: Add carrots, celery, or spinach for a boost of flavor and nutrition.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
Different Meats: Swap sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter take on the recipe.