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Copycat Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup: Easy One-Pot Comfort

A close-up, appetizing shot of a bowl of Zuppa Toscana soup featuring creamy broth, chunks of potato, crumbled sausage, and wilted kale.

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Make the creamy, savory Zuppa Toscana soup you crave at home. This recipe tastes just like the restaurant version, featuring Italian sausage, potatoes, and kale in a rich broth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 pound red potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups chopped kale, stems removed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Drain off excess grease.
  2. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook until the onion softens, about 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the sliced potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, until the kale wilts. Do not let the soup boil after adding the cream.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and the broth is creamy.
  6. Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with crumbled bacon, if using, and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a slow cooker method, brown the sausage and sauté the aromatics on the stovetop first. Transfer everything except the cream and kale to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cream and kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • If you prefer a lower-carb option, substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets.
  • Use mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference for heat.

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