Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

This Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) is a delightful dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this recipe offers a warm and hearty experience with every spoonful. The blend of spices and creamy texture makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that feels like it took hours.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken stock, spices, and cream creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with kale and potatoes, this Zuppa Toscana is not only satisfying but also provides nutritional benefits.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside your favorite bread for dipping.
• Comforting Meal: Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re seeking something cozy and fulfilling.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Zuppa Toscana recipe smooth and efficient, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Stockpot
• Slotted Spoon
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Stockpot: A must-have for cooking soups; it provides ample space to combine ingredients while allowing them to simmer evenly.
• Slotted Spoon: Perfect for removing cooked sausage from the pot without excess grease, ensuring your soup remains flavorful without being oily.

Ingredients

This Zuppa Toscana recipe (inspired by the classic dish at The Olive Garden) is easy to make, full of the most delicious zesty Italian flavors, and so cozy and comforting. See note above for Crock-Pot and Instant Pot instructions.

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground chicken sausage (I recommend spicy)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
• 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
• 5 to 6 cups chicken stock
• 2 to 3 cups chopped fresh kale
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 6 pieces turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled

How to Make Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Cook sausage in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a separate plate while reserving 1 tablespoon grease in the stockpot. Discard any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add onions to the stockpot with the reserved grease. Sauté for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Then add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the diced potatoes, chicken stock, and cooked sausage back into the pot. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Kale and Cream

Stir in chopped kale along with heavy cream into the pot. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper according to your taste.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm in bowls garnished with crumbled turkey bacon on top for added flavor and texture. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Zuppa Toscana!

How to Serve Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

Zuppa Toscana is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. The warm, comforting soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta, is perfect for dipping into the rich broth and soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Topped with Parmesan

• Grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top of each bowl before serving. It adds a wonderful nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Add a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds color and freshness, making your serving look inviting and enhancing the aroma.

Serve with Garlic Breadsticks

• Warm garlic breadsticks are an excellent addition, providing a crunchy texture that pairs well with the smooth soup.

How to Perfect Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

Perfecting your Zuppa Toscana recipe ensures every bowl is delicious. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out better flavors compared to dried ones.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the heat by choosing mild or spicy ground sausage according to your preference.
• Let it Simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances the flavors; just be mindful not to overcook the potatoes.
• Experiment with Greens – While kale is traditional, feel free to substitute with Swiss chard or spinach for a different twist.
• Make Ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and reheat before serving for deeper flavors.
• Store Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

Pairing side dishes with your Zuppa Toscana can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread – Spread garlic butter on slices of bread and toast until golden for a crunchy complement.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction add brightness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables provide a delightful sweetness and texture contrast.
4. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and croutons creates a classic pairing with Italian flavors.
5. Cheesy Biscuit Bites – Soft and cheesy biscuits can be dipped into the soup for an indulgent treat.
6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and excitement alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong type of sausage: Selecting a mild sausage can lead to bland flavors. Opt for a spicy Italian sausage for that authentic zing.

• Not cooking the potatoes long enough: Undercooked potatoes can ruin the texture of your soup. Make sure they are tender before adding kale and cream.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your dish taste flat. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end for the best flavor.

• Using low-quality stock: A weak broth can diminish the soup’s richness. Use high-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for maximum flavor.

• Overcooking the kale: Cooking kale too long makes it lose its vibrant color and texture. Add it towards the end of cooking for a fresh, healthy bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat).

Can I use other greens besides kale?

Yes, you can replace kale with spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer a different green.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat), use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What side dishes go well with Zuppa Toscana?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that complements your soup perfectly.

How do I store leftovers of Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Zuppa Toscana recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings—give it a try!