Zuppa Toscana Soup

Q: How do you make Zuppa Toscana healthier?

To make a healthier version, try these swaps: Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork. Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk . Cut back on butter or omit it entirely.

Q: Can I make Zuppa Toscana in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! For the slow cooker , sauté sausage and aromatics first, then transfer everything (except cream and kale) to the cooker for 4 hours on high. Add cream and kale 30 minutes before serving. In the Instant Pot , use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. Do a quick release, add cream and kale, and stir to combine.

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Zuppa Toscana Soup has taken the internet—and dinner tables—by storm, thanks to its rich broth, savory sausage, and hearty kale-potato combo. Originally a traditional Italian “Tuscan soup,” this American adaptation became wildly popular thanks to Olive Garden. In this article, you’ll discover everything from authentic ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, healthier tweaks, and expert tips to make this soul-soothing comfort food right in your own kitchen.

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Don’t miss our creamy chicken tortilla soup if you’re looking for another satisfying one-pot dinner idea.

What Is Zuppa Toscana Soup?

The Origins of Zuppa Toscana

Zuppa Toscana literally means “Tuscan soup” in Italian, and traditionally, it’s a rustic dish made with veggies, white beans, olive oil, and often served with crusty bread. But the version most Americans know and love is a rich, creamy bowl loaded with spicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, hearty kale, and flavorful broth.

It’s not just a soup—it’s a full meal.

Traditional vs. American Versions

The traditional Tuscan soup is light and earthy, perfect for dipping day-old bread. But in the U.S., the Olive Garden-style Zuppa Toscana turned things up with bold sausage, bacon, and heavy cream. That’s the version this recipe is based on—balanced with flavor, richness, and a bit of heat.

Why It’s So Popular

You can thank the restaurant chain Olive Garden for skyrocketing this soup to fame. Diners couldn’t get enough of the cozy, creamy soup that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s also super adaptable and easy to recreate at home, which makes it a go-to recipe for busy families and foodies alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Authentic Flavor

Core Ingredients List

To make the best Zuppa Toscana Soup at home, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Spicy Italian ground sausage	1 pound	Use mild for less heat
Butter	4 tablespoons	Unsalted preferred
White onion	½, diced	Adds depth to the broth
Garlic	1 tablespoon, minced	Fresh if possible
Chicken broth	6 cups	Low sodium recommended
Water	2 cups	Adds volume
Yellow potatoes	4–5, cubed	Cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt	3 teaspoons	Adjust to taste
Black pepper	1 teaspoon	For subtle heat
Heavy cream	2 cups	Adds richness
Kale	4 cups, chopped	Remove stems for tenderness
Bacon & parmesan	Optional	For garnish

Ingredient Substitutions & Diet Tips

Looking to lighten things up? You’re in luck:

Cream alternatives: Use half-and-half, fat-free cream, or even coconut milk.
Meat substitutes: Swap sausage with plant-based Italian sausage or skip meat for a vegetarian version.
Low-carb version: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes.

These swaps make the soup suitable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or keto lifestyles.

Choosing the Best Sausage and Broth

The sausage makes or breaks this dish. Go for spicy Italian sausage for that signature kick, but mild also works well for kids. And when it comes to broth, opt for a homemade or high-quality low-sodium chicken broth—it deepens the flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Zuppa Toscana at Home

Prepping Your Ingredients

Start by washing and peeling your potatoes, then cutting them into uniform 1-inch cubes. De-stem and chop your kale—bite-sized is best. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Cooking Directions Simplified

Sauté sausage: In a large pot, brown the sausage over medium heat (about 5–6 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, melt butter and cook onions until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Build your broth: Pour in chicken broth, water, potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are fork-tender.
Add richness: Stir in chopped kale and heavy cream. Return sausage to the pot.
Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, optionally topped with crispy bacon or grated parmesan.

Looking for inspiration? Try our cabbage roll soup for another hearty, veggie-packed favorite.

Tips for the Creamiest Texture

To keep your soup silky smooth:

Don’t boil after adding cream—simmer gently.
Use full-fat dairy or coconut cream for best results.
Add cream at the end to prevent curdling.

Discover great ideas like creamy potato and pea chowder for more rich and cozy soups.

Tips to Customize Your Zuppa Toscana Soup

Zuppa Toscana is already a well-rounded meal, but it’s also incredibly flexible. You can easily adapt it to fit your taste, diet, or whatever you’ve got in the fridge.

Make It Vegetarian or Vegan

Craving comfort food but cutting back on meat or dairy? You can still enjoy the rich flavor of this soup with a few smart swaps:

Skip the sausage and add smoked paprika, fennel seeds, and mushrooms for that umami depth.
Use plant-based sausage like Beyond Meat or Field Roast.
Replace heavy cream with coconut milk, cashew cream, or oat milk for creaminess.

These swaps create a delicious vegan version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Don’t miss our creamy mushroom keto casserole for another meatless comfort dish.

Add Extra Hearty Elements

Want to bulk up the soup even more? Here are a few additions that work like a charm:

White beans like cannellini or navy beans add protein and fiber.
A handful of small pasta shapes (like ditalini) makes it more filling.
Try zucchini or sweet potatoes for a seasonal twist.

This soup is the ultimate one-pot wonder—customize it to your heart’s content.

Seasonal Variations to Try

In warmer months, lighten the soup with:

Less cream or use lemon juice for brightness.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a garden-fresh taste.

During colder seasons, make it even cozier with:

A splash of red wine for depth.
Roasted garlic or butternut squash for a richer flavor base.

Check out creamy lemon salmon for another cozy, elevated dinner idea.

What to Serve with Zuppa Toscana Soup

Although this soup shines on its own, pairing it with the right side can take your meal to the next level.

Bread Pairings That Work Best

This creamy soup begs for a side of warm bread. Try:

Rustic sourdough or focaccia
Garlic breadsticks
No-knead homemade bread

The bread soaks up the creamy broth perfectly and adds texture to your meal.

Looking for something comforting? Try our no-knead bread recipe for the perfect pairing.

Salad Combinations

Balance the richness of the soup with a crisp, refreshing salad. Here are a few options:

Tomato cucumber salad
Caesar or garden salad
Spinach with balsamic and berries

These sides add a refreshing element without overpowering the main dish.

Perfect Drink Pairings

Complete your Tuscan experience with a drink that complements the soup’s savory notes:

Drink Option	Why It Works
Sparkling water with lemon	Cleanses the palate
Pinot Grigio or Chianti	Pairs well with sausage and cream
Iced herbal tea	Refreshing without overpowering

Storing and Reheating Zuppa Toscana

Got leftovers? Good news—this soup stores well and is easy to reheat.

Refrigeration & Shelf Life

Let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. For best results, store without the bacon topping to prevent sogginess.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, but with a few notes:

The kale and potatoes may change texture after thawing.
Use within 2–3 weeks for optimal flavor.
Avoid freezing with dairy—add cream after reheating if possible.

To freeze, pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Best Reheating Methods

Reheat gently to preserve flavor and texture:

Stovetop: Warm on low, stirring occasionally.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and stir between intervals.
Slow cooker: Set to low and warm for 1–2 hours.

Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling.

FAQ – People Also Ask

Can I use spinach instead of kale in Zuppa Toscana?

Yes, spinach is a great alternative to kale, especially if you prefer a milder flavor. Add it at the very end since it wilts much faster than kale. Keep in mind, spinach will make the soup slightly less hearty, but just as nutritious.

How do you make Zuppa Toscana healthier?

To make a healthier version, try these swaps:
Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork.
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.
Cut back on butter or omit it entirely.

Does Zuppa Toscana contain gluten?

The traditional American-style Zuppa Toscana is naturally gluten-free—just make sure your sausage and broth don’t contain hidden gluten. Always check labels, especially if you’re serving someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Can I make Zuppa Toscana in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! For the slow cooker, sauté sausage and aromatics first, then transfer everything (except cream and kale) to the cooker for 4 hours on high. Add cream and kale 30 minutes before serving.
In the Instant Pot, use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. Do a quick release, add cream and kale, and stir to combine.

Conclusion

Zuppa Toscana Soup is more than just a restaurant favorite—it’s a hearty, comforting, and surprisingly simple dish you can make right at home. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or tailor it to your diet, this creamy Tuscan soup delivers bold, rich flavors every time. With the right ingredients, some easy prep, and a few helpful tips, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on your table in under an hour.

Learn more about bread bowl recipe ideas to serve your Zuppa Toscana in edible style.

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