Tuscany in a Bowl

Zuppa Toscana soup is a creamy, hearty Olive Garden classic made with spicy sausage, bacon, potatoes, and kale — easy comfort food at home! adding extra kale or spinach for more greens, because I’m all about balance. This Olive Garden copycat recipe is truly a nostalgic one.  You can add more crunchy toppings, sprinkle cheese, or bulk it up with protein and fiber (I love adding white beans).

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4–5 Yukon Gold or white potatoes, sliced
• 1 bunch dino kale (or curly kale), chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream (or cashew/coconut cream for dairy-free)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Aromatics

• In a large pot, sauté chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
• Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
• Spoon out excess grease, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons in the pot.
• Add diced onions and cook until softened.
• Stir in garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

• Add Italian sausage to the pot.
• Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

• Stir in Italian seasoning.
• Add the sliced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth.
• Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Kale, Cream, and Bacon

• Stir in chopped kale and cooked bacon.
• Pour in the heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative).
• Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve warm.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with cashew cream or full-fat coconut cream (note: coconut may affect the flavor).
2. What potatoes work best?
   Yukon Gold or white potatoes hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture without falling apart.
3. Can I use spinach instead of kale?
   Absolutely. Baby spinach or Swiss chard are great alternatives if you prefer a milder green.
4. How long does it keep?
   Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
5. Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana?
   Yes, but the cream may separate slightly upon thawing. Stir well while reheating to recombine.