Zuppa Toscana Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Zuppa Toscana Recipe: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort

If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you’ve likely heard of Zuppa Toscana, the hearty and creamy soup that’s a fan favorite. But did you know you can make this classic Italian-American dish at home? Packed with tender potatoes, savory sausage, crispy bacon, and nutrient-rich kale, Zuppa Toscana is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Making Zuppa Toscana at home is surprisingly easy, and the results rival anything you’d get at a restaurant. This step-by-step guide will walk you through creating this rich and flavorful soup. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy night in, Zuppa Toscana is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What Is Zuppa Toscana?

Despite its name, which translates to "Tuscan Soup," Zuppa Toscana as we know it is not a traditional Italian recipe but an Olive Garden creation inspired by Italian flavors. This creamy soup combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage with the heartiness of potatoes and the fresh earthiness of kale, all brought together in a rich, creamy broth.

Ingredients for Zuppa Toscana

To make this delicious soup, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
4 slices bacon, diced
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 medium Russet potatoes, sliced thinly
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups kale, chopped (or spinach as an alternative)
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, prep all your ingredients. Dice the bacon, chop the onion and garlic, thinly slice the potatoes (you can peel them if preferred), and chop the kale. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Heat a Large Pot or Dutch Oven:
Place your pot over medium heat and add the diced bacon.
Crisp the Bacon:
Cook the bacon until it becomes crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for added flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

Add the Italian Sausage:
To the same pot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.
Brown the Sausage:
Cook the sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked. Remove it from the pot using a slotted spoon and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Cook the Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion to the pot with the sausage drippings. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Broth

Deglaze the Pot:
Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Add the Potatoes:
Stir in the thinly sliced potatoes, followed by the chicken broth and water.
Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Add Cream and Kale

Incorporate the Cream:
Stir in the heavy cream, giving the soup its signature creamy texture.
Add the Kale:
Toss in the chopped kale (or spinach if you’re using it). The greens will wilt quickly in the hot broth.
Return the Meat:
Add the cooked sausage and bacon back into the pot. Stir everything together and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste and Adjust:
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread or breadsticks for the ultimate comforting meal.

Tips for the Best Zuppa Toscana

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh kale and garlic enhance the flavor of the soup. Avoid using pre-chopped kale, which can be tough and less flavorful.
Customize the Protein: Try substituting turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Thin vs. Chunky: If you prefer a thinner soup, add an extra cup of water or chicken broth. For a thicker consistency, mash a few of the cooked potatoes into the broth before adding the cream.
Meal Prep Friendly: Zuppa Toscana can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even more delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Zuppa Toscana is a complete meal in a bowl. It’s rich and hearty, with layers of flavor from the savory sausage, creamy broth, and fresh greens. The balance of textures—soft potatoes, tender kale, and crispy bacon—makes every spoonful satisfying. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare and customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Serving and Storing Zuppa Toscana

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a full meal.
Serve it as a starter for an Italian-inspired dinner.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Freeze: Zuppa Toscana freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Zuppa Toscana is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or when you crave something warm and satisfying. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll have a homemade version of the classic soup that rivals any restaurant dish. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of creamy, savory goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!