CopyCat Zuppa Toscana Recipe (Just Like Olive Garden)

Love Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana? Here’s the Perfect Copycat Recipe!

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably had those days where nothing quite hits the spot like a bowl of Olive Garden’s famous Zuppa Toscana. The rich, creamy broth, spicy sausage, and tender potatoes create the ultimate comfort food. The good news? You can recreate this savory masterpiece right in your kitchen! This Copycat Zuppa Toscana Recipe is as close to the real deal as it gets—guaranteed to satisfy those cravings.

What is Zuppa Toscana?

Zuppa Toscana, which translates to “Tuscan Soup,” originates from Italy, where it’s traditionally a simple yet hearty dish. While Olive Garden’s version adds an American twist, the classic Italian recipe typically includes ingredients like kale, zucchini, cannellini beans, and potatoes, simmered in a broth with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of chili powder. Here, we’ll stick to the Americanized version, which combines spicy Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth that’s bound to warm your soul.

 

Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana Recipe

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients 

To recreate this soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound bulk Italian Sausage (mild or hot, your choice)
• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for some heat)
• 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium onion)
• 2 large russet potatoes, halved and sliced into 1/4″ pieces
• 1 (14-ounce) can chicken broth
• 4 cups water
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup cooked bacon pieces (adds that smoky flavor!)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped kale (or spinach if you’re out of kale)
• 1 cup heavy cream

How to Make Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana

• Brown the Sausage: In a medium skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully browned. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and cook for another minute. Set aside.
• Cook the Potatoes and Onions: In a large saucepan or soup pot, combine the chopped onion, sliced potatoes, chicken broth, water, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
• Combine Everything: Stir in the browned sausage, bacon pieces, and a dash of salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
• Add the Finishing Touches: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream. Heat through, but don’t let it boil. Serve hot and enjoy!

 

Jazz It Up!

• For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or a mix of mild and hot varieties.
• This soup is naturally gluten-free and grain-free, so no need to worry if you have dietary restrictions.
• Want to make this dish keto-friendly? Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower florets.

You can also make this Zuppa Toscana Recipe in the Instant Pot.

How to Store Leftover Zuppa Toscana

Refrigerate leftovers and consume within three days.

Expert Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prep the sausage and chop the vegetables ahead of time to cut down on prep when you’re ready to cook.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve this soup with crusty bread on the side, or add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat—just avoid boiling it, as that can cause the cream to separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use spinach instead of kale?
A: Yes! Spinach works as a great substitute for kale. It wilts faster, so add it at the last minute before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana?
A: You can freeze the soup, but it’s best to leave out the cream if you’re planning to freeze it. Add the cream when reheating to keep that creamy texture.

Q: How do I make it dairy-free?
A: To make this soup dairy-free, use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The soup will still be creamy with a slight coconut flavor.

Want More Delicious Recipes?

Craving more scrumptious and healthy recipes? Dive into my Pinterest board for a treasure trove of culinary inspiration! And if you’re eager to make meal prep even simpler, don’t miss out on my cookbook, The How-To Cookbook for Teens: 100 Easy Recipes to Learn the Basics. It’s brimming with quick, easy recipes designed to elevate your cooking game. Grab your copy today and start transforming your meals!

Love Olive Garden Copycat Recipes?

If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s iconic dishes, why stop at Zuppa Toscana? Try your hand at their Tuscan Garlic Chicken or Alfredo—two other crowd-pleasers that are surprisingly easy to recreate at home.