Creamy Zuppa Toscana

Creamy Zuppa Toscana is a beloved Italian-inspired soup made famous by the Olive Garden. This hearty dish combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh kale in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s comforting, satisfying, and perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Creamy Zuppa Toscana because it’s easy to make, full of bold flavors, and better than any restaurant version. The combination of creamy broth, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a hint of spice from the sausage makes every spoonful irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that comes together quickly and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• Bacon, chopped
• Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• Onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Fresh kale, chopped (or baby spinach)
• Olive oil or butter
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

this recipe

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. In the same pot, add Italian sausage and cook until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add a drizzle of olive oil if the pot is dry, then sauté diced onion until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add sliced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and cook for about 5 minutes until wilted.
6. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and heat through, but do not boil.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
8. Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if you like.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 and takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cooking time.

Variations

• Make it lighter by using half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
• Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage.
• Add baby spinach instead of kale for a milder flavor.
• For extra richness, stir in a bit of cream cheese or grated Parmesan directly into the soup.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Zuppa Toscana in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling after adding the cream to keep it smooth. This soup does not freeze well due to the cream and potatoes, which can change texture.

FAQs

What does Zuppa Toscana mean?

“Zuppa Toscana” means “Tuscan soup” in Italian. It’s inspired by the rustic flavors of Tuscany but popularized in the US by the Olive Garden.

Can I make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time?

Yes! Make it a day ahead — the flavors deepen overnight. Just reheat gently before serving.

Is Zuppa Toscana spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on the sausage you choose and whether you add red pepper flakes.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. It will change the flavor slightly but still be delicious.

What potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and add a creamy texture.

Can I use frozen kale?

Yes, frozen chopped kale works well. Just stir it in and cook until heated through.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the sausage and bacon and use plant-based sausage or extra veggies like mushrooms instead.

What can I serve with Zuppa Toscana?

Serve with crusty bread, breadsticks, or a simple green salad.

How do I thicken the soup?

If you’d like it thicker, mash some of the potatoes in the pot or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana?

It’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing is possible but may affect the texture of the potatoes and cream.

Conclusion

Creamy Zuppa Toscana is the ultimate cozy comfort soup that’s hearty, flavorful, and so easy to make at home. Loaded with sausage, bacon, potatoes, and kale in a rich broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with warm bread and enjoy a taste of rustic Italian goodness any night of the week!

Print