Copycat Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup: A Healthier Southern Twist

Copycat Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup: A Healthier Southern Twist

At Sincere Scribbles, we love recreating classic dishes with a Southern flair, and today we’re diving into a beloved favorite—Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana Soup. This flavorful, robust soup is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting, hearty meal. We’ve added a few personal touches to make it not only healthier but also more in tune with the rich, soulful flavors of the South.

A Healthy and Delicious Soup Choice

Our copycat Zuppa Toscana uses mild ground Italian sausage instead of the traditional hot version, making it milder but still packed with flavor. While hot Italian sausage may bring a kick to the original, we find that the mild sausage allows the other ingredients to shine through while being easier on your taste buds—and your health! Unlike sausage links that often come with casings, this ground sausage option avoids those processed elements that can be harmful to your body. In our effort to eat more natural foods, this adjustment not only cuts back on the spice but also contributes to a cleaner, healthier meal.

Southern Flavor Profiles

What makes this version of Zuppa Toscana truly special is the addition of collard greens as an addition to using just the classic kale. Both options are nutritious, but collard greens carry that familiar Southern warmth and flavor. Whether you use kale, collard greens, or both like I do, you’re boosting the dish with vitamins and minerals that are excellent for your health.

The hearty potatoes provide that classic Southern comfort feel while also offering plenty of fiber and nutrients to keep you satisfied. Combined with the savory, slightly sweet flavors of onions and the bold aroma of garlic, this soup is sure to remind you of the wholesome, nourishing meals that are staples of Southern kitchens.

Recipe Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground mild Italian sausage
• 1 large diced onion
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 2 cups chopped collard greens
• 6 large potatoes, sliced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 5 tbsp butter
• 3 cups heavy cream
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried basil

Making the Soup

Start by browning your ground mild Italian sausage in a large pot. Once fully cooked, set it aside and use the same pot to sauté your onions and garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant. This step ensures that the flavors are infused throughout the soup. After that, add in your sliced potatoes, chicken broth, and water, and allow the mixture to simmer until the potatoes are tender. At this stage, you’ll incorporate the chopped kale or collard greens, basil, and the browned sausage. Finish by stirring in the butter and heavy cream, which creates the rich, creamy texture that makes Zuppa Toscana so indulgent.

A Lighter, Yet Comforting Option

Though this soup contains butter and heavy cream, you can adjust these elements to suit your health goals. Swap out the cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or reduce the butter to make it a bit lighter. The star ingredients—sausage, greens, and potatoes—still shine, offering a satisfying, hearty meal without feeling overly heavy.

Southern Comfort, Every Spoonful

This healthy, heartwarming Zuppa Toscana with its Southern twist is the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a big bowl of comfort food, this soup checks all the boxes. So, pull out your favorite pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort with every spoonful!

To Make This Soup Vegan and Vegetarian friendly, just omit the sausage for a plant-based sausage option or add extra veggies in place of the meats.