This Copycat Zuppa Toscana recipe by Food Network Kitchen is a comforting, hearty soup inspired by the Olive Garden favorite. It’s loaded with Italian sausage, crispy bacon, kale, and tender russet potatoes in a creamy broth. The result is a deeply savory dish perfect for cooler days or when you need something warm and satisfying.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 4 strips thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed

• 4 to 5 large russet potatoes (about 2 1/2 pounds), unpeeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large white onion, diced

• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 6 cups chicken broth

• 6 cups curly kale, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar

Directions

1. Cook bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until crisp (about 6 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

2. In the same pot, cook sausage in bacon drippings until browned and no longer pink (about 6 minutes). Remove and drain.

3. Add potatoes, garlic, and onion to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (6–8 minutes). Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until potatoes are tender (12–15 minutes).

5. Add kale, heavy cream, bacon, and sausage. Simmer until kale is tender, about 5 minutes.

6. Stir in white wine vinegar just before serving.

Nutrients (Per 1-cup serving, estimated)

• Calories: ~300

• Fat: ~20g

• Carbohydrates: ~18g

• Protein: ~12g

• Fiber: ~2g

• Sugar: ~2g

• Sodium: ~700mg

The Inspiration Behind the Dish

Zuppa Toscana, which translates to “Tuscan soup,” takes cues from the rustic culinary traditions of central Italy. While not a traditional Italian recipe in the strictest sense, this Americanized version draws on the region’s love for leafy greens, pork, and earthy vegetables. The Olive Garden popularized this dish in the U.S., serving it as part of their signature soup, salad, and breadstick combo. The copycat version from Food Network Kitchen brings this restaurant staple into your home kitchen, providing a homemade touch that often surpasses the original.

Building Layers of Flavor

What makes this soup so special is its deep, layered flavor profile. It begins with crisped thick-cut bacon, which not only contributes crunch but also infuses the base of the soup with a smoky richness. Sweet Italian sausage then adds a savory and mildly spiced depth that balances beautifully with the bacon. Sautéed onions and garlic enhance the aromatics, while a pinch of red pepper flakes introduces a gentle heat that rounds out the palate. The combination of meat, vegetables, and spice makes every spoonful a dynamic and satisfying experience.

Creamy Broth, Rustic Vegetables

The broth is the heart of Zuppa Toscana. Chicken broth forms the base, providing a light but flavorful canvas that supports the richness of the other components. Heavy cream is added near the end of cooking, transforming the broth into something silky and luxurious without being overly thick or heavy. The potatoes, left unpeeled and diced into hearty chunks, slowly release starch as they cook, naturally thickening the soup and giving it a rustic, homemade quality. The result is a broth that’s both rich and drinkable—a perfect balance for cold-weather meals.

The Role of Kale

Kale may seem like a modern, trendy addition, but it’s actually a nod to traditional Tuscan cuisine, where hearty greens are often used in soups and stews. In this recipe, kale adds a contrasting texture to the soft potatoes and meat, holding its shape well even after simmering. Its slightly bitter edge cuts through the creaminess of the broth and balances the richness of the sausage and bacon. This interplay of flavors and textures is essential to the dish’s overall appeal and helps make the soup feel more wholesome and nourishing.

Homemade Versus Restaurant Version

While the restaurant version of Zuppa Toscana is undeniably popular, the homemade copycat offers several distinct advantages. First, there’s control over the ingredients—whether you want to reduce the salt, switch to a spicier sausage, or use organic produce, the choice is yours. Second, you can adjust portion sizes and add your own personal flair, such as a dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Lastly, homemade soup always tastes fresher and more vibrant, especially when made with care and attention to detail.

Nutrition and Satisfying Qualities

Despite its creamy consistency, this soup manages to strike a reasonable balance in terms of nutrition. Each one-cup serving delivers around 300 calories, with a satisfying mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. The sausage and bacon provide the bulk of the protein and fat, while the potatoes and kale contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The moderate calorie count and hearty texture make it filling enough to serve as a full meal, especially when paired with a simple green salad or slice of crusty bread.

Versatility and Customization

One of the greatest strengths of this recipe is its flexibility. It can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences or ingredients on hand. For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage and swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or even a plant-based alternative. Vegetarians can replace the sausage and bacon with plant-based options and use vegetable broth to maintain depth of flavor. For a spicy twist, hot Italian sausage can be used instead of sweet, or more red pepper flakes can be added to amplify the heat.

Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals and Leftovers

Zuppa Toscana makes an excellent candidate for meal prep. The flavors continue to develop and deepen as it sits, often tasting even better the next day. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days and can be frozen for longer-term storage. When reheating, simply warm it slowly over low heat to preserve the creaminess and prevent separation. This makes it ideal for busy families or individuals who want a hearty, satisfying meal ready to go throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While the soup stands well on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A chunk of rustic sourdough or a slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth. A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the creamy soup and adds freshness to the meal. For a more complete Italian-inspired dinner, consider serving it alongside antipasti like marinated olives or roasted red peppers. Whether served solo or as part of a broader spread, this soup always shines.

The Comfort Food Factor

Perhaps the biggest reason this soup remains a favorite is its incredible comfort factor. It’s the kind of dish that soothes you after a long day or warms you from the inside out on a cold evening. The combination of creamy broth, savory sausage, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and fresh kale makes every bite feel like a hug in a bowl. It’s no wonder that Zuppa Toscana has earned a spot in the comfort food hall of fame, both in restaurants and at home.

Conclusion

This Copycat Zuppa Toscana from Food Network Kitchen is more than just a replica of a restaurant favorite—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and nourishment all in one bowl. From the smoky bacon to the savory sausage, from the creamy broth to the tender kale, every ingredient plays a vital role in crafting a soup that’s rich in both taste and texture. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Olive Garden version or discovering this soup for the first time, making it at home allows you to savor it at its best. With its hearty ingredients, cozy warmth, and customizable nature, this soup is bound to become a recurring favorite in your household.