These Easy Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup bowls are a hug in a mug, filled with cozy flavors that are perfect for any family gathering. Packed with spicy Italian sausage, creamy goodness, and hearty veggies, this soup is not just delicious but also takes less than 30 minutes to whip up! Whether you’re looking to impress guests at dinner or simply want a warm meal that delights the soul, this recipe has you covered.
There’s something magical about a bowl of soup on a chilly day. The aroma wafting from the pot brings everyone to the kitchen, reminding us of family gatherings and heartwarming moments. My love for Zuppa Toscana began on a family trip where we enjoyed this delightful soup at Olive Garden. The flavors danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more. Now, I’m excited to share my version that’s not only close to the original but is also easy enough to make on a weeknight. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish in your very own kitchen!
Easy Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup
A cozy and hearty soup filled with spicy Italian sausage, creamy goodness, and tender veggies, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian ground sausage
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ white onion (diced)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 4–5 yellow potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups chopped kale
- Chopped bacon or bacon bits (optional for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the ground sausage in a large pot over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Melt the butter in the same pot, add diced onions, and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add diced potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in chopped kale and heavy cream, then add the cooked sausage back into the pot. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Dish out the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and bacon bits if desired.
Notes
For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the pot before adding kale and cream. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
How to Make Cozy Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian ground sausage (or use mild for a kid-friendly option)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ white onion (diced)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 4-5 yellow potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups chopped kale
- Chopped bacon or bacon bits (optional for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot, start by sautéing the ground sausage over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter and add in the diced onions. Sauté them over medium heat until they turn translucent. Once they’re ready, add in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it boil until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream, then add the cooked sausage back into the pot. Give it a good taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
- Dish out the soup into bowls and feel free to garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and bacon bits for that extra touch of flavor.
Serving Up the Comfort of Zuppa Toscana
This Olive Garden-inspired soup is perfect for serving on chilly evenings or when you need a little extra love in your meal. Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a delightful family dinner. Make sure everyone gets a generous helping to warm their hearts and bellies!
Storing Your Leftover Soup
If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt you will), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will be good for about 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to dive back in!
Tips for Perfecting Your Zuppa Toscana Soup
- Sausage Swap: If spicy isn’t your thing, feel free to use mild Italian sausage. It’s a family-friendly option that still delivers great flavor.
- Creaminess Boost: For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot before adding the kale and cream.
- Kale Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of kale, you can always substitute it with spinach or Swiss chard!
Fun Variations of Zuppa Toscana
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausage for veggie-based protein, like lentils or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even corn for added texture and flavor!
FAQs
Can I use frozen potatoes in this soup?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes are a convenient option! Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may require a bit less time to cook.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store it properly!
What can I serve with Zuppa Toscana?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple side salad to make your meal feel complete.
Dive into this heartwarming bowl of Easy Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup and create some delightful moments around your dinner table. Happy cooking!