There's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Zuppa Toscana on a chilly evening. This rich and creamy soup is packed with savory turkey sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant kale, all swimming in a flavorful broth that will have you savoring every spoonful.

I first discovered this soup at Olive Garden and instantly fell in love. Wanting to recreate the magic at home, I put my own spin on it by using turkey sausage for a leaner, equally delicious version. Now, this homemade Zuppa Toscana is a staple in my kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike.

Why You'll Love This Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup With Turkey Sausage

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to soup recipe. This homemade Zuppa Toscana is bursting with flavor, easy to make, and just as satisfying as the restaurant version.

First, it's incredibly simple to prepare. In just under an hour, you can have a steaming pot of homemade goodness without the hassle of dining out.

This soup is also a healthier twist on the classic. Using turkey sausage instead of traditional pork keeps the flavors bold while reducing the fat content.

You'll appreciate how budget-friendly it is. With a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can feed a family for a fraction of the price of eating out.

Best of all, it's completely customizable. Whether you prefer extra spice, more veggies, or a dairy-free version, this recipe can easily be adjusted to your liking.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this soup lies in its simple yet delicious ingredients. Each component plays a key role in achieving that signature taste and texture.

Turkey Sausage brings a flavorful and lean alternative to traditional pork sausage. Choose a mild or spicy variety depending on your preference. Be sure to remove the casings before cooking for a crumbled, even texture.

Russet Potatoes add heartiness to the soup. Their starchy nature helps thicken the broth slightly, creating a rich and satisfying consistency. Slice them thinly for even cooking.

Kale gives this dish a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. It softens beautifully in the warm broth without losing its vibrant green hue. If kale isn't your favorite, spinach makes a great substitute.

Heavy Cream is what makes the broth creamy and indulgent. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Chicken Broth serves as the base of this soup, infusing it with deep, savory flavor. Use a high-quality, low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the final dish.

You'll also need basic pantry staples like onion, garlic, red pepper flakes (for a little kick), and olive oil to bring everything together seamlessly.

How To Make This Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup With Turkey Sausage

Creating this restaurant-worthy soup at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a delicious homemade version.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then crumble in the turkey sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Once fully cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.

In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened. This step builds the aromatic foundation of the soup. If using red pepper flakes, add them now for an extra kick.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the sliced potatoes and let them cook until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Their starches will slightly thicken the broth, giving it that signature velvety texture.

Return the cooked sausage to the pot, stirring to combine. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer before adding the kale. Let it wilt into the soup for a few minutes, ensuring it stays tender but still vibrant.

Finally, stir in the heavy cream, allowing everything to meld together into a creamy, rich broth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a side of crusty bread.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze the soup without the heavy cream. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding fresh cream just before serving.

Reheat leftovers gently over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the desired consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This soup is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy customizations to fit your dietary needs and taste preferences.

For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. It adds a slight sweetness but still creates a luscious, creamy texture.

If you prefer a spicier soup, opt for hot Italian turkey sausage and increase the red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.

To make it vegetarian, swap the turkey sausage for a plant-based alternative or use white beans for added protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully meat-free.

Love extra veggies? Try adding diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Experiment with different greens, such as spinach or Swiss chard, if kale isn’t your favorite. Both work beautifully in this dish.

However you choose to make it, this homemade Zuppa Toscana is bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every comforting bite!