Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup

This is a wonderful soup you can make at home, and one of the most requested restaurant copycat recipes from Olive Garden. Serve with some fresh crusty Italian bread.

Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana Soup is a hearty and flavorful soup inspired by the cuisine of Tuscany, Italy. It features a combination of Italian sausage, bacon, potatoes, kale or Swiss chard, and a creamy broth. The soup is known for its rich and comforting flavors, making it a popular choice among soup lovers.

To prepare the Zuppa Toscana Soup, Italian sausage and bacon are cooked to perfection, providing a savory and smoky base for the soup. The addition of onions, potatoes, and garlic adds depth and aroma to the dish. The soup is then simmered with chicken broth and water, allowing the flavors to meld together.

One of the distinguishing ingredients of Zuppa Toscana is the use of leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard. These greens not only add color but also provide a touch of bitterness and texture to the soup. The final touch is the addition of heavy whipping cream, which adds a creamy and velvety consistency to the soup.

Zuppa Toscana Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for cold winter days or any time you crave a delicious and filling soup. It can be served as an appetizer or as a main course alongside a crusty bread or a side salad. The flavors of the soup develop even more as it sits, making it a great option for leftovers the next day.

Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or simply enjoy a comforting bowl of soup, Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana is sure to satisfy your cravings and transport you to the flavors of Tuscany.

SERVES: 6–8

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, crumbled
• ½ pound smoked bacon, chopped
• 1 large chopped onion
• 2 large diced russet baking potatoes
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans chicken broth
• 1 quart water
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups chopped kale or Swiss chard
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the sausage in a 300°F oven for approximately 30 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
2. Brown bacon in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Drain on paper towels.
3. Place the onions, potatoes, broth, water, and garlic in a soup pot. Cook on medium heat for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are done.
4. Add the sausage and bacon. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for another 10 minutes. Turn to low heat.
6. Add the kale and cream. Heat another 5–10 minutes.

VARIATIONS:

• Vegetarian Version: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the Italian sausage and bacon and replace them with plant-based protein alternatives like vegetarian sausage or tempeh. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian soup.
• Spice it up: If you like some heat in your soup, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your desired level of heat.
• Creamy Alternative: If you want to reduce the calorie content or make a lighter version of the soup, you can replace the heavy whipping cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or whole milk. Alternatively, you can use dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk for a vegan-friendly version.
• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of the soup. You can add diced carrots, corn kernels, or chopped bell peppers for extra color and texture.
• Herbs and Seasonings: While the original recipe includes garlic, salt, and pepper, you can add other herbs and seasonings to elevate the flavors. Consider adding dried Italian herbs, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary, to give it an authentic Tuscan taste.
• Garnish Ideas: Enhance the presentation and taste of your Zuppa Toscana Soup by garnishing it with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. These garnishes add a delightful finishing touch to the soup.