If you’re craving the comforting taste of Olive Garden’s iconic Tuscan Soup, but you’re short on time or don’t feel like going out, I’ve got the perfect solution. This Olive Garden Tuscan Soup Instant Pot Recipe will bring that beloved creamy, hearty soup right to your kitchen in a fraction of the time it would take to make it on the stove. The best part? With the Instant Pot, you get all the flavors of a slow-simmered dish in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will hit the spot.
There’s something magical about the combination of potatoes, Italian sausage, kale, and cream. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with ingredients that make each spoonful feel like a warm hug. This recipe recreates that magic but with a modern twist – a faster and easier cooking method that doesn’t skimp on the deliciousness.
Olive Garden Tuscan Soup Instant Pot Recipe
This Instant Pot version of the Olive Garden Tuscan Soup is simple, quick, and loaded with flavor. The pressure cooking method locks in all those savory elements in a way that’s just as comforting as the original, but it cuts down the cooking time dramatically. So, let’s dive right into the details and explore how to make this soup in your own kitchen!
Ingredients Needed
Before we get to the cooking process, let’s break down everything you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
- Italian sausage (1 lb) – The heart of this soup. It’s rich, flavorful, and brings a little heat to the table. You can use spicy or mild sausage, depending on your preference.
- Yellow onion (1 medium) – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor base.
- Garlic cloves (4-5) – Fresh garlic is a must! It’s aromatic and adds a warm, earthy tone to the soup.
- Chicken broth (4 cups) – You could use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, but chicken broth enhances the soup’s richness.
- Russet potatoes (4 medium) – These potatoes add heartiness to the soup. They thicken up the broth and make it feel like a full meal.
- Heavy cream (1 cup) – This makes the soup creamy and decadent. You could use half-and-half if you want a lighter version.
- Fresh kale (2 cups) – Kale brings a nice earthy taste and a vibrant color. It’s also packed with nutrients!
- Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons) – A blend of herbs that brings all the classic Tuscan flavors. If you’re in a pinch, you can make your own with a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Red pepper flakes (optional, 1/4 teaspoon) – A little heat goes a long way to balance out the richness of the soup.
- Salt and pepper (to taste) – Basic seasoning that brings everything together.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon) – For sautéing the sausage and veggies.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s get to the fun part – cooking! Follow these simple steps to make this Olive Garden-inspired soup in no time:
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Sauté The Sausage
- Turn the Instant Pot to the Sauté function.
- Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then crumble in your Italian sausage.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
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Deglaze And Add Broth
- Add a splash of the chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up all the delicious bits stuck to the bottom. This step ensures you get maximum flavor.
- Pour in the rest of the chicken broth and stir.
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Add The Potatoes And Seasonings
- Toss in your sliced russet potatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
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Pressure Cook
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to Sealing.
- Set the Instant Pot to cook on High Pressure for 7 minutes. The pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before it starts cooking.
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Release The Pressure
- Once the cooking time is up, do a Quick Release to let out the pressure. Be cautious of the steam when you open the valve.
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Add The Kale And Cream
- Open the Instant Pot and stir in the cooked sausage, fresh kale, and heavy cream.
- Give everything a good mix and let it simmer on Sauté mode for 5 more minutes until the kale wilts and everything is heated through.
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Taste And Adjust Seasoning
- Taste your soup and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. It pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread.
Ingredient Insights
- Italian Sausage: This is a key player in creating the rich, flavorful base of the soup. It’s seasoned with garlic, fennel, and spices, which contribute to its distinct taste. Opt for mild sausage if you want to avoid too much heat, or go for spicy for that extra kick!
- Potatoes: Russets are perfect because they break down slightly as they cook, adding to the soup’s thickness. They soak up the broth and lend the soup a nice, hearty texture. Yukon Gold potatoes would also work if you prefer a waxier texture that holds its shape more.
- Kale: While spinach can be used as a substitute, kale holds up better in the Instant Pot. It retains its texture and adds a delightful bite. Plus, kale is loaded with vitamins and minerals, making this soup a nutrient-packed option.
- Heavy Cream: For the creamiest texture, heavy cream is non-negotiable. It adds a luxurious richness that’s unmistakable. If you’re looking to lighten it up, half-and-half or whole milk could work, though the result won’t be quite as creamy.
Expert Tips
- Prep Ahead: If you’re pressed for time during the week, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the potatoes, onion, and kale, and keep them in the fridge. Brown the sausage in advance and store it in an airtight container. That way, when you’re ready to cook, it’ll be a breeze.
- Double the Batch: This soup freezes really well, so feel free to double the recipe if you want to save some for later. Just make sure to leave out the heavy cream if you’re freezing it, and add it in after reheating.
- Customize Your Seasoning: If you’re a fan of garlic or herbs, feel free to add extra to boost the flavor. You can also add Parmesan at the end for a cheesy twist.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or a combination of mushrooms and lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Twist: If you like it hot, use hot Italian sausage or stir in more red pepper flakes. You could even add some cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Version: Stir in a handful of shredded Parmesan cheese before serving for that extra depth of flavor. It will melt beautifully into the soup and make it even creamier.
- Low-Carb Option: To make this low-carb, skip the potatoes entirely and replace them with cauliflower florets. They break down similarly to potatoes and create a great texture without the carbs.
Final Words
This Instant Pot version of the Olive Garden Tuscan Soup is the ultimate weeknight meal that’s both comforting and easy to make. It takes the best parts of the original and speeds up the process without sacrificing any flavor. The Instant Pot is a total game-changer when it comes to soups like this, and the result is a hearty, satisfying bowl of goodness in no time.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For The Olive Garden Tuscan Soup In The Instant Pot?
The ingredients for Olive Garden Tuscan Soup in the Instant Pot typically include Italian sausage, onions, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, potatoes, kale, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Can I Make Olive Garden Tuscan Soup In The Instant Pot Without Sausage?
Yes, you can make the soup without sausage by substituting with a plant-based protein, chicken, or simply omitting the meat for a vegetarian version.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Olive Garden Tuscan Soup In The Instant Pot?
The total cook time for Olive Garden Tuscan Soup in the Instant Pot is approximately 25-30 minutes, including time for pressure building and release.
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes In The Instant Pot For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen potatoes, but keep in mind that the cooking time may slightly increase. Be sure to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute For Kale In The Olive Garden Tuscan Soup?
You can substitute kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a similar flavor and texture.
Can I Make The Olive Garden Tuscan Soup Dairy-free In The Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make the soup dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based milk, and omitting the cheese topping or using dairy-free alternatives.
How Do I Avoid The Soup Being Too Watery In The Instant Pot?
To prevent the soup from being too watery, ensure that the potatoes are properly chopped and that the ingredients are in the correct proportions. If needed, you can use less broth or allow the soup to simmer longer after pressure cooking to thicken it.
Can I Double The Recipe For Olive Garden Tuscan Soup In The Instant Pot?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Be sure not to exceed the Instant Pot’s maximum fill line.
What Is The Best Way To Store Leftovers Of Olive Garden Tuscan Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I Use Italian Seasoning Instead Of Individual Spices In The Olive Garden Tuscan Soup?
Yes, you can use Italian seasoning as a substitute for individual spices like oregano, basil, and thyme. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as Italian seasoning blends may vary in strength.