There’s something about a rich, creamy bowl of soup that makes you feel warm and cozy from the inside out. And when that soup is as vibrant and hearty as Kale Potato Soup, it’s like a little hug in a bowl! If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you might be familiar with this comforting dish, which is a perfect blend of savory potatoes, tender kale, and a touch of spice. The Olive Garden version has earned its place in the hearts of many, with its creamy texture and balance of flavors that are just so satisfying.
But what if I told you that you can recreate this beloved soup in the comfort of your own kitchen? Not only can you skip the long wait at a busy restaurant, but you’ll have the added bonus of making it exactly how you want, adding your own twist, and even making enough to enjoy for a couple of days. So, let’s dive into the Olive Garden Kale Potato Soup recipe and explore how you can bring this tasty dish to life!
Kale Potato Soup Olive Garden Recipe
If you’re craving the Olive Garden version, this recipe gives you a fantastic copycat version that’s super simple to follow. Imagine the creamy richness of the soup paired with the hearty texture of potatoes and the satisfying bite of kale – it’s comfort food at its best.
Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients Needed
The best part of this soup is how few ingredients are needed to create such a flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this tasty creation to life:
- 1 lb. of potatoes (Russet potatoes work best for their starchy texture)
- 1 bunch of fresh kale (washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 4 cups of chicken broth (you can substitute vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version)
- 1/2 lb. of Italian sausage (spicy or mild depending on your preference)
- 1 medium onion (diced finely)
- 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 cup of heavy cream (for that rich, velvety texture)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes (for a little extra heat)
- Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Each of these ingredients plays a role in bringing out the full depth of flavor in the soup, creating a balanced and rich experience with every spoonful.
Cooking Instructions
Now let’s talk about the process! Don’t worry – this soup might seem like a lot of steps, but it’s actually super easy to make. Here’s how you can do it:
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Cook The Sausage
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat up a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage until it’s fully cooked through and slightly crispy around the edges.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
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Add The Potatoes
- Add the chopped potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine them with the sausage and aromatics. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes to soak up some of those delicious flavors.
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Add The Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you’re going for a vegetarian version). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes, depending on how small you’ve chopped them.
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Add The Kale
- Once the potatoes are cooked through, add the chopped kale. Stir it in and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until it wilts down to a nice tender texture.
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Finish The Soup
- Stir in the heavy cream, then season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding crushed red pepper flakes for some heat, now’s the time to do it!
- Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls, garnish with some grated Parmesan cheese (for that extra umami), and serve hot.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this recipe brings something special to the table:
- Potatoes: They’re the base of this soup, providing a creamy texture when softened, while also absorbing the flavors of the broth and sausage.
- Kale: This leafy green adds not only a burst of color but also a nutritional punch. It’s high in vitamins A, C, and K, and provides a slight earthy flavor that balances out the richness of the broth and cream.
- Italian Sausage: The sausage is what gives this soup its signature depth and spiciness. It’s juicy and flavorful, infusing the soup with savory goodness.
- Chicken Broth: A rich, savory base that enhances the entire soup without overpowering the other flavors. It’s an essential component that ties everything together.
- Heavy Cream: This adds the rich, velvety smoothness that makes this soup so indulgent. It tempers the heat from the sausage and gives it that creamy texture everyone loves.
Expert Tips
- Potato Texture: If you like a creamier soup, you can mash a portion of the potatoes with a spoon or a potato masher right in the pot after they’ve softened. This will help thicken the broth.
- Kale Prep: Be sure to remove the thick stems from the kale before chopping it. They can be tough and chewy. Also, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can blanch the kale in boiling water for a minute before adding it to the soup.
- Make Ahead: This soup actually gets better with time! If you have the patience, make it a day ahead. Let the flavors deepen and meld together in the fridge, and reheat it before serving.
- Spice Level: If you love spice, feel free to kick it up by adding more red pepper flakes or even a chopped fresh chili pepper. For a milder version, skip the spicy sausage and opt for a mild one.
Recipe Variations
While this version of kale potato soup is pretty perfect as is, there are a few fun ways to change it up:
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage or mushrooms instead of Italian sausage to keep the soup hearty but meat-free. You can also swap in vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add Bacon: For even more savory flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon. Bacon’s smoky, crispy goodness will add a delicious contrast to the creaminess of the soup.
- Different Greens: If you’re not a fan of kale, try spinach or Swiss chard as a substitute. These greens wilt down beautifully and still provide that fresh, earthy note.
- Cheese Lovers: For a cheesy twist, add a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese right before serving. It’ll melt into the soup, making it even more indulgent.
Final Words
This Kale Potato Soup is one of those recipes that feels like a warm, comforting embrace, whether it’s a cold winter evening or just a day when you need a little extra love from your food. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and offers that perfect balance of hearty and creamy. Plus, you can tweak the ingredients to match your personal taste preferences.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a bowl of something hearty and soul-satisfying, grab your ingredients and whip up this Olive Garden-inspired soup. Trust me – it’s going to become a regular on your meal rotation!
FAQs
What Is Kale Potato Soup From Olive Garden?
Kale Potato Soup from Olive Garden, also known as “Zuppa Toscana”, is a hearty Italian-inspired soup made with a combination of potatoes, kale, Italian sausage, and a creamy broth. It’s a popular dish known for its rich flavor and comforting texture.
What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Kale Potato Soup Olive Garden Recipe?
To make this soup, you will need the following ingredients: Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, onions, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, bacon, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Can I Make Kale Potato Soup Without Sausage?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of the soup by omitting the sausage. You may want to replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or add other proteins like beans for a hearty texture.
Can I Use Frozen Kale For This Soup?
While fresh kale is generally recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen kale as a substitute. Be sure to thaw and drain it properly before adding it to the soup to avoid excess moisture.
What Type Of Potatoes Should I Use For Kale Potato Soup?
Russet potatoes are typically used for this recipe, as they break down well and contribute to the soup’s creamy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
How Can I Make The Kale Potato Soup Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, you can add extra red pepper flakes or include some diced fresh chilies. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream With A Lighter Option?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the soup. However, the texture may not be as rich and creamy.
How Long Does Kale Potato Soup Last In The Fridge?
The soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat to prevent curdling of the cream.
Can I Freeze Kale Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Kale Potato Soup. To do so, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, note that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing.
What Can I Serve With Kale Potato Soup Olive Garden Recipe?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a side of garlic bread. The soup’s creamy and savory flavor complements these sides perfectly.