Zuppa Toscana – Olive Garden Copycat

Introduction

Zuppa Toscana, a creamy and savory Italian soup, has become a staple of Olive Garden’s menu, and for good reason. This hearty soup is made with a rich blend of sausage, potatoes, onions, and kale, all simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home using everyday ingredients, and with a few simple tips and tricks, you can achieve the same delicious flavor and creamy texture that’s made Olive Garden’s version so beloved. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just looking for a new recipe to add to your rotation, this Zuppa Toscana copycat is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in Zuppa Toscana is a key to its success, with the spicy kick of the sausage balanced by the richness of the cream and the earthiness of the kale. By using accessible ingredients like Italian sausage, potatoes, and onions, you can easily replicate this flavor balance at home.
• The ease of preparation is another factor that makes this recipe a winner. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying soup on the table in no time. Simply cook the sausage and onions, add in the potatoes and broth, and let it all simmer together until the potatoes are tender.
• Despite its simplicity, Zuppa Toscana is a truly impressive dish that’s sure to wow your family and friends. The combination of creamy broth, tender potatoes, and spicy sausage is a winning combination that’s sure to become a staple of your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
• 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by cooking the Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it’s no longer pink and lightly browned.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and dried thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream and cook until the soup is heated through. Add the chopped kale to the pot and cook until it’s wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Handy Tips

• To make this recipe more substantial, consider adding some diced ham or bacon to the pot along with the sausage.
• If you prefer a lighter soup, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk.
• To add some extra flavor to the soup, try adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the pot along with the onion and garlic.

Heat Control

When cooking the Italian sausage, be sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks to prevent it from forming clumps. This will help the sausage cook evenly and prevent it from becoming too browned or crispy. When simmering the soup, be sure to keep the heat at a medium-low setting to prevent the potatoes from becoming too tender or the cream from breaking.

Crunch Factor

The key to achieving a creamy and tender soup is to cook the potatoes until they’re just tender, then stir in the heavy cream and cook until it’s heated through. This will help the soup to retain its creamy texture and prevent it from becoming too thin or watery. If you prefer a bit of crunch in your soup, consider adding some chopped nuts or croutons on top of the soup before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To add some extra flavor to the soup, try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. Simply simmer some chicken bones and vegetables in water for 30 minutes to an hour, then strain and discard the solids.
• To make the soup more efficient to cook, consider using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. This will help the potatoes to cook more quickly and the soup to retain its creamy texture.
• To prevent the soup from becoming too thick or sticky, be sure to stir it regularly as it cooks and add a bit more chicken broth if necessary.

Storage Tips

• To store the soup, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze it in an airtight container. The soup will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.
• To reheat the soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot and steaming.
• To prevent the soup from becoming too thick or sticky during storage, be sure to stir it regularly and add a bit more chicken broth if necessary.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give this soup as a gift, consider packaging it in a decorative jar or container, then topping it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh kale leaves. You could also include a bag of crusty bread or a side salad to make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• To add some extra spice to the soup, consider adding a bit of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeno to the pot along with the sausage.
• To make the soup more substantial, consider adding some diced ham or bacon to the pot along with the sausage.
• To add some extra flavor to the soup, consider using different types of sausage, such as chorizo or sweet Italian sausage, or adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the pot.

Troubleshooting

• If the soup becomes too thick or sticky, try adding a bit more chicken broth to thin it out.
• If the soup becomes too thin or watery, try simmering it for a few minutes to reduce the liquid and thicken the soup.
• If the soup doesn’t have enough flavor, try adding a bit more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, the soup is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and cook the soup in a larger pot.

Conclusion

Zuppa Toscana is a hearty and delicious Italian soup that’s sure to become a staple of your recipe rotation. With its rich and creamy broth, tender potatoes, and spicy sausage, this soup is a winning combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just looking for a new recipe to try, this Zuppa Toscana copycat is a great option. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors and creamy texture of this beloved Olive Garden soup.