Tuscan Sausage & Kale Soup: Zuppa Toscana Reimagined

Elevated Zuppa Soup! My Tuscan Sausage & Kale Soup recipe is a flavour explosion. Hearty, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. Get the posh Olive Garden copycat recipe!

Recipe Introduction: Zuppa Soup Time!

Ever crave that warm, comforting hug in a bowl? i know i do! and honestly, is there anything better than a steaming bowl of zuppa soup on a chilly evening? this copycat zuppa toscana is my go-to when i want something hearty, flavorful, and just plain satisfying.

It's so much better than takeout!

Tuscan Treasure: Your New Favorite Soup

This tuscan soup , sometimes called toscana soup , is inspired by the flavors of tuscany. think savory italian sausage, hearty kale, and a creamy, comforting broth.

Its origins are rooted in italian peasant cuisine, where resourceful cooks made delicious meals from simple, affordable ingredients. my version sits comfortably in the medium difficulty range.

It takes about an hour from start to finish. this makes enough for 6-8 servings, perfect for a family dinner or some delicious leftovers.

Health and Happiness in a Bowl

This zuppa soup isn't just delicious; it's pretty good for you, too! kale is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

Plus, the protein from the sausage will keep you feeling full and satisfied. it’s the perfect meal when you need a bit of comfort.

I personally think this copycat recipes olive garden version of zuppa toscana soup is ideal for a cozy night in, a casual get-together with friends, or even a potluck.

Honestly, what makes it special is the depth of flavor. it tastes like it simmered all day, even though it comes together in under an hour.

Ready to ditch the same old Crockpot Soup Recipes ? Let’s dive into the ingredients!

Alright, let's talk zuppa soup ! seriously, who doesn't love a good bowl of soup? especially when it’s cold outside.

I'm going to walk you through the ingredients and gear you'll need to make a killer copycat zuppa toscana . this version is inspired by olive garden, but trust me, it's even better.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Real

Okay, let’s dive into what you'll need. I am using the Olive Garden version as a base, but we're elevating it.

Main Ingredients: The Stars of Our Show

First off, the sausage. You'll want 1 pound (450g) of Italian sausage. Sweet or hot, your call. Quality is key here. Look for sausage that actually smells like sausage, not just…stuff.

Next up, the onion. One large yellow onion, diced. About 1 cup (150g) . Two cloves of garlic, minced. About 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Don't skimp on the garlic!

Then, the broth. 6 cups (1.4 liters) of chicken broth. Low sodium is your friend unless you wanna feel like a salt lick. Add 4 cups (950ml) of water too.

Finally, the kale! One bunch of Tuscan kale, chopped. It is about 8 cups (200g) . Make sure it’s fresh, bright green, and not all wilty. Honestly, that's a deal-breaker.

You can add the potatoes, but it is optional: 1 pound (450g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed.

Spice it up : the essential spice combo is italian seasoning ( 1 teaspoon/5ml ) and red pepper flakes ( ½ teaspoon/2.

5ml ), if you're into that. salt and pepper to taste, always! for the final touch, heavy cream ( 1 cup/240ml ) and parmesan cheese ( ½ cup/120ml ).

Seasoning Notes: Flavor Boosters

This copycat zuppa toscana gets its depth from italian seasoning, but don't be afraid to experiment. a pinch of fennel seed can add a subtle anise note, while smoked paprika brings a smoky depth.

Oh my gosh, for flavor enhancers, a bay leaf simmered in the broth makes a world of difference. Just remember to remove it before serving!

Got no italian seasoning? no worries! mix equal parts dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. boom, you're golden. also remember that you can make this keto zuppa toscana by omitting the potatoes, and substituting it with a cauliflower puree.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need a fancy kitchen to nail this tuscan soup . a big ol' dutch oven or soup pot is essential.

A wooden spoon for stirring, measuring cups and spoons (duh), and a knife and cutting board. honestly, that’s it.

If you don't have a dutch oven, a large stockpot works just fine. and if you're lacking measuring spoons, just eyeball it.

Cooking should be fun, not stressful. you know? i sometimes just pour the spices straight from the jar.

This zuppa soup can be enjoyed by fans of kingdom fanart. this recipe is very versatile, it can go from a keto friendly meal, to even being used as a base for other recipes.

It is also compatible with crockpot soup recipes. i like to make mine in the instant pot and that helps me save time.

Alright, now that we have all the ingredients, let's get cooking!. i'm super excited to share this recipe with you, and i know you'll absolutely love it.

The key is to have fun and don't be afraid to experiment with the flavors. and remember, this toscana soup is not just food; it's an experience.

It's a way to connect with family and friends and share a little bit of love and warmth.

Cooking Method: Zuppa Soup – Elevated!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good bowl of soup? and zuppa soup ? it's like a warm hug on a cold day.

Today, we're tackling copycat zuppa toscana , that olive garden classic, but we're gonna make it, like, really good. forget the basic; this is elevated tuscan soup .

Prep Steps: Mise en Place, Baby!

First, mise en place . basically, "everything in its place." chop your 1 large yellow onion. mince your 2 cloves garlic.

Chop your 1 bunch kale. get your 1 pound italian sausage ready. it makes cooking way easier. for safety, always use a sharp knife.

And you know? keep your workspace clean!

Step-by-Step: Let's Cook!

Okay, here’s how we turn basic ingredients into Copycat Recipes Olive Garden quality, but better :

1. Brown that 1 pound Italian sausage in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Break it up real good! Then, take it out of the pot.
2. Sauté the diced 1 large yellow onion 'til soft, about 5 minutes . Then, add minced 2 cloves garlic and cook for another 1 minute .
3. Pour in 6 cups chicken broth and 4 cups water. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and maybe ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if you're feeling spicy!). Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer for 15 minutes . Let those flavors get to know each other.
5. Add 1 bunch chopped kale. Cook until it's tender, around 5- 7 minutes .
6. Stir in cooked sausage and 1 cup heavy cream. Gently heat it. Don't boil!
7. Stir in ½ cup Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot. Sprinkle with more cheese!

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Soup Game

A little sausage advice? get good sausage. it makes a huge difference. and, don't boil the cream ! low and slow wins the race.

You know? avoid curdling. make-ahead? totally! this zuppa toscana soup is even better the next day. some people search for crockpot soup recipes , but honestly, the stovetop gives you more control!

Oh my gosh, this is so good! if you are into a keto zuppa toscana , just omit the optional potatoes.

If you're trying to find low carb dinners or keto soups , this recipe fits the bill. it's a great option for low carb soups or even just low carb ideas .

A real kingdom fanart -worthy soup!

Alright, let's talk about some notes to make this zuppa soup sing . think of these as insider tips from your friendly neighborhood food blogger (that's me!).

These recipe notes will really help make your zuppa toscana soup stand out.

Recipe Notes

Serving Suggestions

Okay, presentation matters. honestly, i think food tastes better when it looks good! for this tuscan soup , ladle it into a rustic bowl.

A swirl of extra virgin olive oil on top? yes, please!

Crusty bread is a must for dipping. Honestly, a side salad can complement it well too. A crisp glass of Pinot Grigio? Perfect! I served it when Kingdom Fanart was playing on our TV, and let me tell you, it was chef's kiss !

Storage Tips

Leftover Copycat Zuppa is amazing. Let it cool. Then pop it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will be good for 3-4 days.

Freezing it is an option too! again, cool completely first. then freeze in individual portions. this is great for meal prepping.

Thaw overnight in the fridge. reheat gently on the stove. don't microwave it!

Variations

Want a keto zuppa toscana ? no problem! ditch the potatoes. use cauliflower rice instead. it's a great option for keto soups .

This also works if you're looking for low carb soups .

If you're going with the keto zuppa , look for keto soup recipes for other ideas. it's also a fantastic low carb dinner idea and great if you are looking for low carb ideas .

Seasonal ingredient swaps are fun too. I once made it with butternut squash instead of potatoes in the fall. Oh my gosh, it was amazing ! You should look into Copycat Recipes Olive Garden , because it is very versatile

Nutrition Basics

This Sausage Kale soup is pretty good for you. It has protein from the sausage. The kale has vitamins and fiber. Just be mindful of the cream.

It is high in sodium, so watch out if you are sensitive. A lot of sodium is not good for you !

I hope these notes help you create the best copycat zuppa toscana ever! soups can be a part of healthy low carb dinners .

Don't be scared to experiment! and remember, cooking should be fun. get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Zuppa Soup and where does it come from?

Zuppa, which means "soup" in Italian, is a pretty broad term! When people say "Zuppa Soup," they're often thinking of Zuppa Toscana, a Tuscan soup known for its creamy broth, Italian sausage, kale, and sometimes potatoes. It's basically the Italian version of chicken noodle soup when you're feeling a bit under the weather, but with a whole lot more flavour.

Can I make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time, and how should I store it?

Absolutely! In fact, like a good Sunday roast, Zuppa Toscana often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just a heads-up, the kale might absorb some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating if it seems too thick.

I'm not a huge fan of kale, what can I substitute in my Zuppa Soup?

No worries, we've all got our culinary nemeses! If kale isn't your cup of tea, spinach makes a great substitute. It cooks even quicker than kale, so just toss it in during the last few minutes of simmering until it wilts. You could even try chard or cavolo nero for a slightly different flavour profile. There are plenty of ways to skin a cat when it comes to soup!

How can I make Zuppa Soup healthier? What are the nutritional benefits?

You can lighten up Zuppa Soup by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even substituting with unsweetened almond or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Using leaner Italian sausage or even ground turkey or chicken will also cut down on the fat. Kale is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, making this soup a surprisingly nutritious and delicious meal!

My Zuppa Toscana is a bit bland, how can I boost the flavour?

Flavour lacking, eh? Sounds like it's time to get your chef's hat on! A good trick is to ensure you're using high-quality Italian sausage – it makes a huge difference. You can also add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pot after browning the sausage and onions, or even a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten things up. Don't be afraid to play around with the seasoning too; a little extra Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes can work wonders.

Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana? Will the texture be the same after thawing?

Freezing Zuppa Toscana is possible, but be aware that the texture might change slightly upon thawing. The potatoes and kale can become a bit softer, so it's best to undercook them slightly if you plan to freeze the soup. Cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent curdling of the cream.

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