Zuppa Toscana is one of Olive Garden’s most popular soups, known for its rich, creamy texture and comforting flavors. This hearty Italian soup features a delicious blend of spicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day, and it’s incredibly easy to make at home! This copycat recipe replicates the restaurant’s iconic soup, so you can enjoy it anytime.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), sliced thin
  • 2 cups fresh kale, chopped (or spinach, if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove any excess fat if necessary.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine. Add the sliced potatoes and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
  4. Add the Kale: Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.
  5. Stir in the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the soup. Stir well to combine and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the cream to blend into the broth.
  6. Season: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For added heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 350–450 kcal
  • Protein: 20–25g (from sausage)
  • Fat: 25–30g (from sausage and cream)
  • Carbohydrates: 20–25g (mainly from potatoes and vegetables)
  • Fiber: 3–5g (from kale and potatoes)
  • Sugar: 5–7g (natural sugars from vegetables)
  • Sodium: 800–1,000mg (depends on broth and sausage used)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana is the ultimate creamy, comforting soup that’s easy to make at home. With the spicy sausage, tender potatoes, and rich broth, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for the perfect Italian-inspired meal!