Name: Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 4 slices bacon, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed); 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups russet potatoes, thinly sliced; 3 cups kale, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes, optional

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If you have ever craved a warm, hearty bowl of comfort that feels like a cozy hug, look no further than this Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe. Bursting with the rich flavors of Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale all simmered to perfection in a creamy broth, this soup is a delightful twist on the beloved Olive Garden classic. It’s a dish that sings with layers of savory goodness and satisfying textures, perfect for any day when you need something soul-soothing yet simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with raw ingredients arranged neatly. There are three whole brown potatoes on the left, a small pile of fresh green kale at the back right, and a single yellow onion next to two small clear salt and pepper shakers. In front, a white plate holds sliced raw bacon. Next to the plate is a rectangular package of raw turkey sausage with an orange and yellow label. Behind the potatoes and kale are three containers: a bottle of light yellow cooking oil, a can of cream soup, and a small carton of dairy milk. The setting is simple and well-lit, emphasizing the textures and colors of the fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in crafting that signature taste and comforting texture. From the hearty sausage and crispy bacon, to the earthy kale and velvety cream, these components work in harmony to bring the soup alive.

Italian sausage (1 pound): Choose mild or spicy depending on your heat preference; this adds a rich, savory base flavor to the soup.
Bacon (4 slices, chopped): Crisped to perfection, bacon delivers irresistible smoky crunch that tops the finished dish.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon, optional): Used if needed to sauté ingredients, contributing subtle fruitiness and preventing sticking.
Onion (1, diced): Brings sweetness and depth that balance the richness of the sausage and cream.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Lends an aromatic punch that infuses the soup with warmth.
Russet potatoes (4 cups, thinly sliced): These potatoes break down slightly when cooked to create a natural, creamy texture.
Chicken broth (4 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.
Water (2 cups): Helps achieve the perfect broth consistency without overpowering flavors.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess that makes every spoonful indulgent.
Kale (3 cups, chopped): Offers a vibrant pop of green, plus a subtle bitterness that cuts through the richness.
Salt and black pepper: Season to taste, enhancing all the flavors harmoniously.
Red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat for those who love a little kick.

How to Make Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by cooking chopped bacon in a large pot until it’s wonderfully crisp. Not only does this provide a texture contrast for the final dish, but the rendered bacon fat will also infuse the soup with smoky goodness. Once done, carefully remove the bacon pieces and set them aside to use later as a delightful topping.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Using the same pot with the bacon drippings, add your Italian sausage and cook it until browned and crumbly. This step locks in the meaty flavor and builds the hearty base that makes this Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe so satisfying. Stir frequently to break up large pieces, ensuring even cooking.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and soft, and the kitchen fills with that irresistible savory aroma. This layer of flavor adds sweetness and complexity, essential for rounding out the soup’s profile.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Liquids

Now it’s time for the star ingredient of texture — the thinly sliced russet potatoes. Stir them in alongside the chicken broth and water, then bring the whole pot to a lively boil. Potatoes simmering in the broth will thicken the soup naturally, contributing creaminess without any artificial ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat and let everything simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are perfectly tender. This slow cooking stage allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the soup irresistibly comforting and full-bodied.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Kale

Finally, pour in the heavy cream and add the chopped kale. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the kale wilts and the cream mingles with the broth, creating that iconic velvety texture. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to your taste preference.

Step 7: Finish with Bacon

Before serving, sprinkle the reserved crisp bacon on top to add a delightful crunch and smoky pop that completes this beloved Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe.

How to Serve Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe

The image shows two white bowls filled with creamy risotto. The risotto is light beige with small green parsley leaves sprinkled on top. There are pieces of white chicken and yellow mushrooms mixed throughout. On the side, there is a white bowl with red pepper flakes and a blue bowl with green herbs. A woman's hand holding a fork is reaching toward one of the bowls. The surface underneath everything is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Don’t be shy with garnishes—they’re what take this soup up a notch! A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty finish, while a few extra red pepper flakes can turn up the heat for spice lovers. Fresh parsley brightens the bowl with a pop of color and mild herbal notes. These simple touches create an inviting, restaurant-quality presentation right at home.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks, perfect for soaking up every last drop of flavorful broth. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the creamy, indulgent soup. For a fuller meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a cheese plate to keep that Italian-inspired theme going strong.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out small bread bowls for instant charm and extra tastiness. Or layer the soup with crunchy croutons and shredded cheese in an oven-safe bowl, then broil briefly until bubbly and golden on top. This not only adds texture but feels a bit fancy for guests or special occasions. Either way, presentation makes your Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe an experience to remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Just be sure to keep the bacon separate if you want it crisp; otherwise, it will soften in the soup.

Freezing

While cream-based soups can sometimes separate after freezing, this Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe freezes quite well if you slightly undercook the potatoes and kale. Freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat gently to maintain that rich, creamy texture without breaking.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, heat the soup slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the cream from curdling. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Re-crisp bacon separately in a pan to sprinkle on top after reheating for maximum deliciousness.

FAQs

Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild?

Absolutely! Using spicy Italian sausage will add a flavorful kick to your soup. Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes accordingly to balance the heat.

Is it possible to substitute kale with other greens?

Yes, spinach works wonderfully as a substitute for kale and will make the soup a bit milder and softer in texture. Swiss chard or collard greens also work well, depending on availability.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream for a dairy-free version. The texture will be slightly different but still creamy and delicious.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they soften nicely and release starch, creating a natural creamy base. Avoid waxy potatoes since they hold their shape too much and won’t add the same creaminess.

How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the soup will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For best flavor, reheat gently and add crispy bacon just before serving each time.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Sausage Soup (Copycat Zuppa Toscana) Recipe is a heartfelt homage to a classic that’s easy enough for any weeknight yet impressive enough for sharing with friends and family. With its comforting layers of sausage, potatoes, and kale swimming in creamy broth, it’s a dish that warms you from the inside out. I hope you give it a try and discover just how satisfying homemade comfort food can be. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!