Zuppa Toscana is a hearty Italian soup famously served at Olive Garden. This comforting dish combines spicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth for a rich and flavorful meal that’s perfect for dinner or lunch.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild, casings removed)
• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 bunch kale, chopped (about 4 cups)
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove sausage and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot.
2. Add diced onions to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add sliced potatoes, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and add crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Heat through but do not boil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread if desired.

Nutritional Information 

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 15g

The Origins of Zuppa Toscana

Zuppa Toscana, which translates to “Tuscan soup,” originates from the Tuscany region of Italy, known for its simple yet flavorful cuisine. This rustic soup reflects the region’s culinary traditions, where hearty, farm-to-table ingredients like kale, potatoes, and sausage are staples. Though it has evolved over time, the essence of Zuppa Toscana remains rooted in bringing together accessible ingredients to create a warming, satisfying dish.

The Olive Garden Influence

While Zuppa Toscana is a traditional Italian soup, its popularity skyrocketed in the U.S. thanks to Olive Garden, which adapted and popularized the recipe. Their version introduced a creamier texture with heavy cream and a more pronounced sausage flavor, making it a favorite comfort food in American households. The Olive Garden copycat recipe has become a go-to for those wanting a restaurant-quality soup at home.

The Role of Italian Sausage

Italian sausage is the key flavor component in Zuppa Toscana, providing a savory, slightly spicy note that contrasts beautifully with the mildness of potatoes and the bitterness of kale. The sausage’s fat also enriches the broth, lending depth and richness. Choosing between mild or spicy sausage can adjust the heat level, allowing the soup to cater to different tastes.

Nutritional Benefits of Kale

Kale is a powerhouse ingredient packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber. Its slightly bitter flavor and sturdy texture make it ideal for soups like Zuppa Toscana, where it softens yet retains some bite. Including kale in the soup adds nutritional value, helping to balance the richness from sausage and cream with essential nutrients.

The Comfort of Potatoes

Potatoes serve as the hearty base in this soup, absorbing the broth’s flavors while contributing a creamy texture when cooked through. Russet potatoes are often used because they hold up well without disintegrating. The starch from the potatoes slightly thickens the broth, enhancing the overall mouthfeel and making the soup more filling.

Cream vs. Broth: Balancing the Liquid

One defining characteristic of Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana is its creamy broth, which sets it apart from many traditional Italian soups that rely more heavily on broth or stock. The addition of heavy cream gives the soup a luscious, smooth texture and mellow flavor, balancing the spice of the sausage and bitterness of the kale. It’s this creamy element that makes it a comfort food favorite.

Variations on the Classic

Zuppa Toscana lends itself well to customization. Some recipes swap kale for spinach or Swiss chard, while others add ingredients like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also adjust the level of spice or make it dairy-free by substituting cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These variations make it easy to tailor the soup to different dietary needs or preferences.

Cooking Techniques for Best Flavor

Browning the sausage thoroughly and sautéing the onions and garlic before adding liquids is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors. These steps build a flavorful foundation for the soup. Also, simmering the potatoes just until tender prevents them from turning mushy, maintaining texture. Adding kale at the end ensures it retains its bright color and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Zuppa Toscana is best enjoyed hot, ideally with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth. It works well as a main dish because of its balance of protein, vegetables, and starch, but can also be served as a starter in a multi-course meal. Pairing it with a light salad or a crisp white wine complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Why Zuppa Toscana Is a Popular Comfort Food

This soup embodies the qualities of classic comfort food: warm, filling, and flavorful. The creamy broth, hearty sausage, tender potatoes, and nutritious greens create a balanced, satisfying meal that is especially welcome in colder months. Its ease of preparation and robust taste make it a reliable dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Tips for Making Zuppa Toscana Healthier

While traditionally rich, there are ways to lighten this soup without sacrificing flavor. Using turkey sausage instead of pork, reducing or replacing heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, and increasing the amount of kale can lower fat and calorie content while boosting fiber and vitamins. Controlling the salt and spice levels also helps tailor the soup for a healthier diet.

Cultural Significance and Popularity

Zuppa Toscana reflects Italian culinary values of using simple, local ingredients to create flavorful meals. Its popularity outside Italy, especially in the U.S., highlights how traditional recipes can be adapted and embraced worldwide. It also shows how restaurant dishes can influence home cooking trends, spreading appreciation for Italian cuisine.

Conclusion

Zuppa Toscana is more than just a soup; it is a delicious representation of Tuscan culinary tradition that has been embraced globally, especially through its popularization by Olive Garden. Its combination of savory sausage, nutritious kale, creamy broth, and hearty potatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, Zuppa Toscana continues to warm hearts and tables, making it a timeless favorite in many kitchens.