OLIVE GARDEN ZUPPA TOSCANA

Zuppa Toscana is a creamy, hearty soup made famous by Olive Garden, filled with Italian sausage, tender potatoes, kale, and a flavorful broth. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly nights, combining rich flavors with a satisfying creaminess. This easy-to-make recipe brings the taste of your favorite restaurant home and can be served with crusty bread for dipping or alongside a fresh salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4-5 medium russet potatoes, sliced thinly or diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 bunch kale, stems removed, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Crumbled bacon (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving a small amount of fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the potatoes and broth: Add the sliced or diced potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth, water, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the kale and sausage: Once the potatoes are cooked, stir the chopped kale and browned sausage into the soup. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the kale is wilted and tender.
5. Add the cream: Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper to taste, and simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
6. Serve: Ladle the Zuppa Toscana into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and crumbled bacon if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

This Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana is a warm, creamy, and comforting soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal at home. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty ingredients in this easy-to-make recipe!