Olive Garden Tuscany Soup Recipe

I’ve tried many versions of Olive Garden’s Tuscany soup, and I’m excited to share a recipe that captures its authentic flavors just right!

You’ll love how this warm, hearty soup combines the richness of Italian sausage, the earthiness of kale, and the creamy warmth of potatoes.

Don’t forget to sauté your sausage until it’s beautifully browned—this step brings out an amazing depth of flavor.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a big difference, and I promise you’ll savor every spoonful!

How to Make Olive Garden Tuscany Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Italian Sausage
• 5 slices Bacon
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 3 cups Potatoes (sliced)
• 2 cups Kale (chopped)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.

Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2:

In the same pot, cook the Italian sausage until browned.

Drain any excess fat.

Step 3:

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the sausage.

Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Step 4:

Stir in the chicken broth and sliced potatoes.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5:

Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream.

Cook until the kale is wilted.

Serve hot, garnished with the crispy bacon!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Kale

Fresh kale gives the soup a vibrant color and robust taste, so don’t skimp on it if at all possible.

Try Different Sausages

If you feel adventurous, you can substitute the Italian sausage with spicy or mild varieties for a different twist.

Adjust Cream for Thickness

Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream depending on how creamy you like your soup.

If you like a thicker soup, add a little more cream and let it simmer longer.

Opt for Red Potatoes

Using red potatoes can help the slices hold their shape better while being cooked.

They add a beautiful texture and color to the soup that both stands out and captivates your senses.

Season to Taste

Taste as you go and remember to adjust salt and pepper as needed.

If you’re unsure, add a little as you taste and adjust to your preference.

Experiment with these tweaks and enjoy a wonderfully homemade soup mimicking a restaurant classic!

What to Serve with Olive Garden Tuscany Soup Recipe

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with garlic bread when serving this Italian-inspired soup.

The crispy texture and buttery, garlic flavor pair wonderfully with the creamy broth.

Toast up slices of bread with a mix of butter, garlic, and parsley for an irresistible side.

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad is a refreshing choice to accompany this hearty soup.

The crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and tangy dressing add a lovely contrast.

Toss in some homemade croutons for a bit of crunch that complements the soup’s rich texture.

Caprese Skewers

Try something a little different with Caprese skewers on the side.

These easy-to-make appetizers feature cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory soup.

Roasted Vegetables

Roast a medley of vegetables for a vibrant and nutrient-packed side dish.

Include vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini for a colorful presentation.

The light caramelization from roasting enhances their natural sweetness, which works well with the soup’s savory notes.

Lemon-Infused Couscous

Couscous infused with lemon zest can be a surprising yet wonderful addition.

Its light and fluffy texture blends nicely with the rich creaminess of the soup.

Prepare it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint for added freshness.

Variations and Substitutions

Sausage Options

You can try using different types of sausage to give Zuppa Toscana a unique twist.

Spicy Italian sausage adds a nice kick, but mild sausage works if you prefer less heat.

For a leaner option, chicken sausage can be a great substitute.

Vegetable Choices

Switching up the vegetables can add new flavors to your soup.

Spinach is a great alternative if you don’t have kale on hand.

You might also add a handful of chopped carrots for a bit of sweetness.

Cream Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten the dish, there are ways to adjust the creaminess without heavy cream.

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter version of the soup.

Coconut milk is another tasty option for a slightly different but delicious flavor.

Broth Variations

Using different types of broth can slightly change the taste profile of your soup.

Vegetable broth is a perfect choice for a vegetarian version.

For more depth, consider adding beef broth for a heartier taste.

How to Store Leftover Olive Garden Tuscany Soup Recipe

Finding the best way to store your leftover Olive Garden Tuscany Soup can help preserve its rich flavors for future meals.

Start by letting your soup cool down to room temperature before storing it; this step is essential to prevent steam from creating excess moisture.

Use Airtight Containers

After cooling, transfer the soup into airtight containers to keep it fresh.

These containers help lock in the flavors and aromas.

Make sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion.

Keeping It in the Refrigerator

You can store this soup in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Ensure the container is tightly sealed to avoid any absorption of other strong odors from the fridge.

Freezing for Later Use

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup for up to three months.

Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags and leave some room for expansion.

Freezing is a great option if you don’t plan to enjoy it within the week!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Sausage

Using the correct type of sausage is crucial for authentic flavor in your soup.

I advise sticking with spicy Italian sausage for richness, which gives the dish its distinct kick.

Mild varieties can diminish the soup’s bold essence, so if you’re a fan of robust tastes, choose carefully.

Overcooking the Potatoes

Pay attention to the texture of your potatoes as you cook.

Undercooked potatoes won’t soak up flavors, while overcooked ones turn mushy, losing the hearty feel of the soup.

Aim for a tender consistency by keeping an eye on them during simmering.

Skipping the Bacon

Don’t skip bacon, as it adds depth and a smoky element to your soup.

If you omit or use too little, you might miss out on this satisfying texture and flavor.

Always reserve some bacon for garnishing, for that perfect crunchy finish!