Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup With Turkey Sausage Recipe

Here's a rich and flavorful take on Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana, made lighter with turkey sausage while still delivering that creamy, comforting goodness. There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of this soup on a chilly evening, packed with tender potatoes, savory turkey sausage, and vibrant kale in a luxuriously creamy broth.

this Recipe

I first tried making this at home after a trip to Olive Garden, where I fell in love with their signature soup. But I wanted a version that felt a little lighter without sacrificing any of the bold flavors. Swapping out traditional pork sausage for turkey sausage turned out to be a game-changer—it’s just as delicious but a bit leaner, making it the perfect balance of indulgence and health-conscious cooking.

This Zuppa Toscana copycat recipe is not only easy to make but also budget-friendly, using simple pantry staples to create a restaurant-worthy dish at home. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special.

Why You'll Love This Zuppa Toscana Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this homemade version of Zuppa Toscana. It’s just as rich and flavorful as the restaurant original, but with a few smart swaps to make it a bit lighter.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and about 40 minutes, you’ll have a hearty soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

This recipe is also healthier than the classic version. By using turkey sausage instead of pork, you’re cutting down on saturated fat while still getting all the delicious seasoning and flavor.

You’ll love how budget-friendly it is, too. A single pot can easily serve a whole family, and you probably already have most of the ingredients on hand.

Finally, it’s completely customizable. Whether you like a spicier kick, a dairy-free option, or a lower-carb version, there are plenty of ways to tweak this recipe to suit your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients, each bringing something special to the table.

Turkey sausage is the star of the show here. It provides all the rich, savory goodness you love about Zuppa Toscana but with less fat than traditional pork sausage. You can use mild or spicy turkey sausage depending on your preference.

Russet potatoes give the soup its hearty texture. Their natural starchiness helps thicken the broth slightly, creating a silky consistency. Be sure to slice them thinly so they cook quickly and evenly.

Fresh kale adds a pop of color and a dose of nutrients. If you’re not a fan of kale, you can swap it out for spinach, but kale holds up better in the hot broth without wilting too much.

Chicken broth and heavy cream create the base of the soup. The broth provides a flavorful foundation, while the cream gives it that signature rich and velvety texture. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.

A touch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat, balancing the creamy broth and hearty ingredients beautifully.

You’ll also need a large pot or Dutch oven to make this soup, as well as a sharp knife for slicing the potatoes and prepping the kale.

How To Make This Zuppa Toscana Soup

Making this soup at home is easier than you think. Just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a steaming bowl of Zuppa Toscana ready to enjoy.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Remove the turkey sausage from its casing and crumble it directly into the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer it to a plate and set it aside.

In the same pot, add a little olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onions. Sauté them until they turn soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the thinly sliced potatoes, making sure they’re fully submerged in the liquid. Let them cook for about 15 minutes, or until they become fork-tender.

Once the potatoes are soft, return the cooked turkey sausage to the pot and stir everything together. Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, letting the soup warm through without bringing it to a full boil.

Finally, add the chopped kale and stir until it wilts slightly, about 2 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. The result is a creamy, hearty, and perfectly seasoned soup that’s ready to serve.

This soup comes together in about 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying dinner.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this soup stores beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. However, keep in mind that the dairy may separate slightly when thawed. To fix this, simply stir well while reheating, and it will come back together.

When reheating, warm the soup over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it has thickened in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to its original consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Zuppa Toscana is how adaptable it is. Here are some easy ways to customize it to your taste.

If you prefer a spicier version, use hot turkey sausage instead of mild. You can also increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

For a lower-carb option, swap out the potatoes for cauliflower florets. They provide a similar texture without the extra starch.

Want a dairy-free version? Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It gives the soup a creamy texture while adding a subtle richness.

To make it extra hearty, try adding white beans or chickpeas. They blend seamlessly into the broth and add an extra dose of protein and fiber.

No turkey sausage on hand? You can use chicken sausage or even ground turkey seasoned with Italian herbs for a similar flavor profile.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe and make it your own. However you customize it, one thing’s for sure—this homemade Zuppa Toscana will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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