Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

This Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) recipe is a delightful way to bring the flavors of Italy right into your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or entertaining friends, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. With its hearty ingredients and zesty flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in various ways, including on the stovetop, in a Crock-Pot, or an Instant Pot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: This dish is packed with rich Italian flavors that will satisfy any palate.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: It’s perfect as a main course or paired with crusty bread for dipping.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, it serves up to 8 people easily!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Proper equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Ideal for cooking large quantities; allows for even heat distribution.
• Slotted spoon: Helps transfer cooked sausage while leaving excess grease behind.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (I recommend spicy)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
• 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
• 5 to 6 cups chicken stock

For Garnishing

• 2 to 3 cups chopped fresh kale
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper
• 6 pieces bacon, cooked and crumbled

How to Make Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a separate plate. Reserve 1 tablespoon of grease in the stockpot; discard any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Add the diced onions to the stockpot with the reserved grease. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute while stirring.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken stock along with the cooked sausage.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Stir in chopped kale and heavy whipping cream.
2. Simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
3. Season with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm, garnished with crumbled bacon bits on top for an added crunch!

Enjoy your homemade Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)!

How to Serve Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Zuppa Toscana is about enhancing the cozy experience of this delightful soup. Here are some creative ways to make your meal extra special.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and adds a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving. This brings out the vibrant flavors and adds a lovely color.

Alongside a Simple Salad

• A light green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Try arugula or mixed greens for freshness.

Garnished with More Bacon

• For bacon lovers, consider adding an extra layer of crispy bacon on top. It enhances the flavor and makes it even more indulgent.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Presenting Zuppa Toscana in individual bowls can make for an elegant touch at dinner parties or gatherings.

With Parmesan Cheese

• Grate fresh parmesan cheese over the soup right before serving for added depth and creaminess.

Pin

How to Perfect Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

To ensure your Zuppa Toscana turns out just right, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh kale and high-quality sausage will elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, opt for mild Italian sausage instead of spicy.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes work well, but feel free to try red potatoes for a different texture.
• Add More Greens: If you love greens, throw in some spinach along with kale for added nutrition.
• Store Properly: To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

Zuppa Toscana pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some top choices:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing that adds a buttery flavor, perfect for dipping into the soup.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing provides a nice contrast to the hearty soup.

3. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers freshness that balances the richness of Zuppa Toscana.

4. Stuffed Mushrooms
   These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent appetizer alongside your meal.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while enhancing the overall dining experience.

6. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory soup flavors.

7. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies offers variety and excitement to your meal.

8. Caprese Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch for.

• Using Low-Quality Sausage: Choose a good-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Spicy sausage adds a delightful kick that enhances the dish.
• Neglecting Potato Size: Cut potatoes into even, bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender at the same time.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning! A little salt and pepper can make a big difference in flavor.
• Overcooking the Kale: Add kale towards the end of cooking. Overcooked kale loses its vibrant color and nutritional benefits.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Ensure you have enough chicken stock. The soup should be hearty but not too thick, so adjust liquid as needed.

Pin

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat).

Can I make Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat) vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What kind of potatoes work best in Zuppa Toscana?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture when cooked, but russet potatoes can also work well.

How spicy is this Zuppa Toscana (Olive Garden Copycat)?

The spice level depends on the type of Italian sausage used. Opt for mild or spicy based on your preference.

Can I use other greens besides kale?

Absolutely! Spinach or Swiss chard can be great substitutes if you prefer them over kale.

Final Thoughts

This Zuppa Toscana recipe brings warmth and comfort right from your kitchen. It’s versatile, allowing for customization with different vegetables or proteins. Give it a try, and enjoy this cozy dish any day of the week!