This hearty Zuppa Toscana soup brings together tasty potatoes, fresh kale, and spicy sausage in a rich broth. It’s warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days!
When I make this soup, my family can’t get enough of it! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and I love serving it with some crusty bread on the side. Yum! 🍞
Cooking this soup is a breeze! Just brown the sausage, add the veggies, and let it simmer. It’s so easy, you’ll want to whip it up all the time. Trust me, it’s a winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can pick either mild or spicy depending on your heat preference. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too!
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are great for soups due to their starchy nature. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try using cauliflower instead!
Onion: A medium onion brings sweetness to the dish. If you’re out of onions, shallots or green onions can be used instead, though the flavor will be a bit different.
Kale: Kale adds nutrition and texture. If you don’t have kale, Swiss chard or spinach can be great alternatives, but add spinach towards the end to avoid overcooking it.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, you could replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that it may change the overall flavor!
How Do I Sauté Without Burning the Garlic?
Sautéing garlic can be tricky since it burns easily. Start by heating your olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion first and cook it until it’s translucent (3-4 minutes). Then, add the minced garlic and stir continuously for about 1 minute. This way, the garlic gets a nice flavor without burning!
- Always keep an eye on the pan and stir the garlic as it cooks.
- If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, lower the heat immediately.
How to Make Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 2 large russet potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup kale, torn into small pieces
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Optional: grated parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, followed by about 25-30 minutes cooking. Perfect for a cozy meal any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sausage:
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Keep an eye on it and cook until browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, but remember to leave all those tasty drippings in the pot!
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring carefully not to let it burn.
3. Adding the Broth and Potatoes:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes and chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Check them with a fork; they should be soft but not mushy!
4. Finishing the Soup:
Once the potatoes are tender, add the cooked sausage back into the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, kale, and red pepper flakes. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the kale is wilted and soft. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to serve your yummy Zuppa Toscana! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top if you like. Grab a spoon and enjoy your homemade soup—you deserve it!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just season it well with Italian herbs, garlic powder, and perhaps a bit of paprika to mimic the flavors of Italian sausage. Cook it in the same manner, browning it for about 5-7 minutes in the pot.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or simply omit it. You can add more vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and consider including a splash of soy sauce for added depth.
Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Yes! Store any leftover Zuppa Toscana in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
How to Thicken the Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If you find your soup is thinner than desired, you can slightly mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork in the pot to release their starch, which will naturally thicken the soup. Alternatively, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup, simmering for a few more minutes until thickened.
