Zuppa Toscana Recipe: A Hearty, Comforting Soup
This recipe takes the beloved elements of Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana and elevates them with a focus on achieving the perfect balance of flavors and a satisfying texture. The inclusion of fresh herbs and the adjustment of the soup's thickness ensure a dish that dances on the tongue and remains memorable long after the meal is over. Enjoy this hearty, comforting soup with family and friends!
Recipe Video
Recipe Ingredients
- 1/2 pound Bacon
- 1 pound Italian Sausage, casing removed
- 1 large Onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons 6 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme, Rosemary, or Oregano, to taste
- 80 ounces about Chicken Stock
- 3 large Potatoes, cut into ½ inch (4cm) dices
- 3 cups Kale, stems removed, leaves torn and chopped
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 3/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese, for serving
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- Cornstarch slurry, optional, for thickening
Recipe Instructions
- Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it's crispy and has rendered its fat.
- Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. In the same pot, add the diced onion. Cook until the onion is soft and starting to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
- Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the fresh thyme (or your herb of choice) for additional flavor.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
- Add the potatoes, kale and cook about 30 minutes or until the potatoes are fully soft and the kale has wilted.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
- If a thicker soup is desired, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir into the soup. Heat until the soup thickens to your liking, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Texture and Flavor: The thickness of the soup can be adjusted to your preference using the cornstarch slurry. Remember, the texture can enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Serving Suggestion: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers: Zuppa Toscana can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.
