Soup from Olive Garden called Zuppa Toscana

Creamy Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup

A hearty and flavorful soup featuring savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant kale in a creamy broth. This recipe is perfect for warming up on a chilly day!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 4 cups chopped kale
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes and stir well to distribute the heat.
3. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the juices in the pot for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the thinly sliced potatoes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Add the Kale and Sausage

1. Return the browned sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped kale.
2. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

1. Stir in the heavy cream and mix well.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 portions
• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

Tips for Success

• Customize the sausage: Use mild or spicy Italian sausage to suit your taste.
• Consistency: For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the sausage and kale.
• Leafy greens: If you don’t have kale, substitute with spinach or Swiss chard.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the heavy cream with unsweetened coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

2. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Absolutely. Slice or crumble pre-cooked sausage and add it back to the pot after the potatoes are tender.

3. How long does this soup last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but leave out the cream before freezing, as it may separate upon thawing. Add the cream when reheating.

5. What sides go well with this soup?
Serve with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy the rich and satisfying flavors of this Creamy Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners!