Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup with Turkey Sausage: A Healthier Twist



 

1. Cook the Turkey Sausage

  1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of rendered fat in the pot. If needed, add a drizzle of olive oil for sautéing.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

3. Add the Broth and Potatoes

  1. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer.
  2. Add the thinly sliced potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.

4. Add the Kale and Sausage

  1. Stir the cooked turkey sausage back into the pot.
  2. Add the chopped kale and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, until the kale is tender and wilted.

5. Add the Cream and Season

  1. Stir in the heavy cream to give the soup a creamy, rich texture.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like a bit of heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes.

6. Serve

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled turkey bacon, or a drizzle of cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping.
  • Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions.
  • Freezing Option: Freeze the soup without the cream for up to 3 months. Add the cream when reheating to maintain the best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier Option: Made with turkey sausage and kale for a lighter yet flavorful take.
  • Comforting and Creamy: The perfect balance of hearty, savory, and creamy goodness.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it perfect for weeknights.

This Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup with Turkey Sausage is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table. Enjoy! 🥣✨