Homemade Copycat Zuppa Toscana Recipe

If you love the hearty and comforting flavors of Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana soup, you're in for a treat! This homemade version captures all the savory goodness of the original with a few simple ingredients. Let's dive into making this delicious soup that's perfect for cozy nights in.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or spicy based on preference)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 cups water
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional (for heat)
• 4 cups chopped kale, stems removed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Italian Sausage:

   • In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked and browned, remove any excess fat.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:

   • Add the chopped onion to the pot with the cooked sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion begins to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add Broth and Potatoes:

   • Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Add Kale and Cream:

   • Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Serve Hot:

   • Ladle the Zuppa Toscana into bowls and garnish each serving with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Perfect Zuppa Toscana:

• Sausage Choice: Use either mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference for heat.
• Kale Substitution: If you prefer a different green, you can substitute kale with spinach or Swiss chard.
• Creamy Texture: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, although heavy cream adds richness to the soup.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

• Bread: Serve Zuppa Toscana with crusty bread or breadsticks for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Now you can enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade Zuppa Toscana anytime without having to dine out. This soup is sure to become a family favorite with its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients. Buon appetito!