Introduction

Zuppa Toscana Copycat is a dish that has gained immense popularity over the years, and its creamy, hearty goodness is a major reason why. Olive Garden’s version of this Italian soup is a favorite among many, and today, we’re going to make a copycat recipe that’s just as delicious. This Copycat Recipe Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of the restaurant in the comfort of their own home.

The aroma of Italian sausage and bacon fills the air, making your stomach growl with anticipation. The first sip is like a warm hug, with the creamy broth and tender potatoes comforting your senses. As you continue to savor the soup, the slightly spicy kick from the red pepper flakes leaves you wanting more.

So, let’s dive into the world of Zuppa Toscana and explore what makes this copycat recipe so special. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, you’ll be making it again and again. If you’re looking for more soup recipes, be sure to check out our collection of easy and delicious options.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Zuppa Toscana Copycat recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves a good, creamy soup. The combination of Italian sausage, bacon, and potatoes creates a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s diet-friendly, with approximately 610 calories per serving. You can also customize it to suit your dietary needs by substituting certain ingredients or adjusting the portion sizes.

By making this Zuppa Toscana Copycat recipe at home, you’ll not only save money but also enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal from scratch. So, let’s get started and explore the world of Zuppa Toscana! For more 30-minute soup recipes, check out our quick and easy options.

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage
4-5 slices of bacon
1 large onion (chopped)
3 cloves of garlic (minced)
2 medium potatoes (diced)
1 cup of chicken broth
1/2 cup of heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
2 cups of kale (chopped)
2 tbsp olive oil

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

When it comes to the ingredients, you can customize them to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the salt content of the dish. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the Italian sausage with mushrooms or eggplant.

The heavy cream adds a rich and creamy texture to the soup, but you can also use half-and-half or coconut cream as a substitute. Additionally, you can add other spices or herbs to give the soup an extra boost of flavor.

Some other ingredients you can add to enhance the flavor of the soup include diced bell peppers, chopped carrots, or sliced zucchini. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that works best for you!

Equipment Needed

To make this Zuppa Toscana Copycat recipe, you’ll need a large pot, a cutting board, and some measuring cups and spoons. You’ll also need a spoon to break up the Italian sausage and a whisk to mix the heavy cream.

Other equipment you may find useful includes a food processor to chop the onion and garlic, or a hand blender to puree the soup for a smoother texture. However, these are optional and not necessary to make the recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
Sauté Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Add onions and garlic to the pot and cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add potatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot, and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped kale or spinach, if desired.

Visual Guide & Tips

As you cook the Italian sausage, you’ll notice it starts to brown and crisp up. This is a sign that it’s ready to be broken up with a spoon. Be sure to stir the sausage constantly to prevent it from burning.

When adding the onions and garlic, cook them until they’re translucent and fragrant. This will bring out the natural sweetness of the onions and add depth to the soup.

As the soup simmers, you’ll notice the potatoes start to tenderize. This is a sign that the soup is almost ready. Be sure to check the potatoes regularly to avoid overcooking them.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

One common mistake people make when making Zuppa Toscana is overcooking the potatoes. To avoid this, be sure to check the potatoes regularly and remove them from the heat as soon as they’re tender.

Another tip is to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh kale and real heavy cream. This will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the soup.

If you find that your soup is too thick, you can always add a bit more chicken broth to thin it out. On the other hand, if the soup is too thin, you can add a bit more heavy cream to thicken it up.

Some other tips to keep in mind include using low heat to prevent the soup from burning, and stirring constantly to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.

In terms of troubleshooting, some common issues people encounter when making Zuppa Toscana include the soup being too salty or too bland. To fix this, you can adjust the amount of salt and pepper to taste, or add other seasonings to give the soup more flavor.

Storage & Freezing

To store the soup, let it cool completely and then refrigerate or freeze it. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

When reheating the soup, be sure to heat it slowly over low heat, stirring constantly, to prevent it from burning or separating. You can also add a bit more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin out the soup if it’s too thick.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with mushrooms or eggplant to make a vegetarian version of the soup.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Let the soup cool completely and then refrigerate or freeze it in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze the soup?

A: Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it slowly over low heat.

Q: What can I serve with the soup?

A: You can serve the soup with crusty bread, salad, or roasted vegetables for a delicious and filling meal.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Q: Can I make it ahead?

A: Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Calories: 610 kcal

Protein: 26g

Carbs: 24g

Fat: 45g

Sugar: 5g

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Zuppa Toscana Copycat recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, go ahead and give it a try! Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes if you make it. I’d love to see your creations and hear your feedback.

Happy cooking, and buon appetito!