If there’s one thing that Olive Garden is known for (apart from their iconic breadsticks and unlimited salad), it’s their signature soups. The Zuppa Toscana stands out as a fan favorite-a hearty, creamy, and flavorful soup that has won over hearts and appetites everywhere. Whether you’ve dined at the restaurant and can’t get enough of it, or you’re simply craving something that feels like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, this recipe is the perfect solution. It’s the kind of dish that combines simplicity with depth, and it’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home.
Olive Garden Soup De Toscana Recipe
Zuppa Toscana, which translates to "Tuscan Soup," embodies the rustic flavors of Italy but with an American twist. Its creamy broth, tender potatoes, spicy sausage, and fresh greens come together to create a satisfying bowl of comfort. It’s a hearty meal all by itself, and whether you’re serving it on a chilly day or at a family dinner, it’s sure to impress. Let’s break it down into a simple-to-follow recipe that will make you feel like a chef at an Italian trattoria.
Ingredients Needed
- Italian Sausage (1 pound): Preferably a spicy Italian sausage to give the soup that kick of flavor.
- Russet Potatoes (4 medium-sized): These potatoes hold up well in soups, absorbing the flavors while maintaining their texture.
- Kale (3-4 cups): Kale adds not only a pop of color but also a slightly earthy, bitter flavor that balances out the richness of the soup.
- Onion (1 medium): Chopped finely, it gives a foundation of savory sweetness.
- Garlic (3-4 cloves): Minced or crushed garlic adds depth and aroma to the soup.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups): This forms the base of the soup. You can use low-sodium for a healthier version, or regular for a richer flavor.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): This is the secret ingredient that makes the soup creamy and indulgent.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, optional for garnish): A finishing touch that adds umami and richness.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the onions and garlic to enhance their flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you want to add a bit of heat to the soup, this is the perfect addition.
Cooking Instructions
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Prep The Ingredients
- Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Slice them into thin rounds or half-moons for even cooking.
- Chop the onion and garlic. Rinse and roughly chop the kale, removing the thick stems.
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Brown The Sausage
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Once hot, add the sausage. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, browning it evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In the same pot, add a little more oil if necessary. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting it become fragrant. This helps release all the delicious flavors.
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Simmer The Soup
- Add the sliced potatoes to the pot and stir them around to coat them in the oil and onions.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Add The Sausage And Kale
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine.
- Add the kale and let it wilt into the soup, which should only take about 3-4 minutes.
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Make It Creamy
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes so the cream can blend with the flavors.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls. For an extra touch, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Ingredient Insights
- Italian Sausage: The type of sausage you choose can really make or break the flavor of the soup. A spicy Italian sausage gives the soup its signature heat, but if you prefer something milder, you can use sweet sausage instead. The sausage provides both fat and flavor, making it a crucial component of the dish.
- Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are starchy, which makes them perfect for thickening up the soup and adding body to the broth. Their texture holds up well over long cooking times without turning mushy.
- Kale: Kale is one of those hearty greens that works beautifully in soups. It keeps its texture even after being cooked down, which contrasts well with the creamy broth.
- Heavy Cream: This is what gives the soup its signature richness. It transforms a simple broth into a luscious, velvety base. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
Expert Tips
- Flavor Boost: To enhance the flavor of your broth, try adding a bay leaf or thyme during the simmering stage. These herbs will add a subtle, aromatic depth to the soup.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or puree a portion of the soup in a blender before returning it to the pot.
- Sausage Options: If you’re trying to keep the dish lighter or more traditional, consider swapping the sausage for ground turkey or chicken. You can still use Italian seasoning for flavor.
- Kale Prep: Be sure to remove the tough stems from the kale before adding it to the soup. If you prefer a more delicate texture, you can substitute kale with spinach, but keep in mind it wilts more quickly.
- Storage: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as they meld together. Just make sure to let it cool before storing in an airtight container.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Zuppa Toscana: Skip the sausage and instead use plant-based sausage or mushrooms to add that earthy, umami flavor. Vegetable broth can be used in place of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
- Spicy Version: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper for a spicy kick. You can also use chorizo sausage for extra flavor and heat.
- Add Beans: For a more filling soup, you could add cannellini beans or kidney beans. They’ll soak up the broth and provide an additional layer of richness.
- Cheese Lovers: If you’re a fan of cheese, mix in some mozzarella or fontina along with the Parmesan for extra gooeyness.
Final Words
Zuppa Toscana is more than just a soup; it’s an experience. The savory sausage, hearty potatoes, and velvety cream come together in a comforting blend that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to treat yourself on a cozy evening at home, this dish never disappoints.
FAQs
What Is Olive Garden’s Soup De Toscana?
Olive Garden’s Soup de Toscana is a hearty Italian-inspired soup made with spicy Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that has become one of the restaurant’s signature offerings.
What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Olive Garden Soup De Toscana At Home?
To make the soup at home, you will need: Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, onions, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes, and seasoning (salt and pepper). Some recipes also call for bacon for extra flavor.
Can I Make Olive Garden Soup De Toscana Without Kale?
Yes, you can make the soup without kale if you prefer. Some substitutions include spinach or Swiss chard, which will still provide a similar texture and flavor. However, kale is the key ingredient for the traditional taste.
How Long Does It Take To Make Olive Garden Soup De Toscana?
Typically, making Olive Garden Soup de Toscana from scratch takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. This includes time for preparation and cooking, as the potatoes need to soften, and the flavors need to meld together.
Can I Make Olive Garden Soup De Toscana In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply cook the sausage and onions on the stove first, then add all the ingredients (except the cream and kale) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, then stir in the kale and cream in the last 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute For Heavy Cream In The Soup?
If you want a lighter version of the soup, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. However, the texture and richness may differ slightly.
Can I Freeze Olive Garden Soup De Toscana?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, it’s best to freeze it without the cream. When reheating, you can add the cream fresh to maintain its smooth texture. If frozen with cream, it may separate when thawed.
How Do I Make Olive Garden Soup De Toscana Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage instead of mild. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce can also increase the heat level.
What Kind Of Sausage Is Used In Olive Garden’s Soup De Toscana?
The sausage used in Olive Garden’s Soup de Toscana is typically Italian sausage, which can be either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Mild sausage is usually preferred for the classic flavor.
How Do I Prevent The Potatoes From Getting Mushy In The Soup?
To prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy, it’s important to cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces and avoid overcooking them. You can also add them towards the end of cooking to ensure they retain their texture.