Nothing beats the warmth of Olive Garden’s iconic soups, famous for their rich flavors and hearty ingredients. From the creamy Zuppa Toscana to the veggie-packed Pasta e Fagioli, these soups are a cornerstone of the restaurant’s menu. Now, you can bring that Italian comfort to your kitchen with easy copycat recipes that taste just like the original!
Quick Recipe Overview
- Difficulty: Medium
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Serves: 6 persons
Health Benefits of Olive Garden Soups
Olive Garden soups balance indulgence and nutrition. For example, Zuppa Toscana features kale, a superfood rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while its potatoes provide potassium and fiber. Minestrone is loaded with beans, vegetables, and whole-grain pasta for plant-based protein and antioxidants. Even creamy options like Chicken & Gnocchi can be lightened with low-sodium broth and fresh herbs.
Ingredients (for Zuppa Toscana)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 3 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Execution
- Cook the Bacon & Sausage: In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside. Add sausage to the pot, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Simmer the Base: Pour in chicken broth and add potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Add Greens and Cream: Stir in kale and cooked bacon. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add heavy cream. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Heat gently (do not boil).
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese. Pair with Olive Garden-style breadsticks!
Additional Tips
- For Pasta e Fagioli: Swap potatoes for ditalini pasta, add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and ground beef.
- For Chicken & Gnocchi: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, potato gnocchi, and spinach in a creamy broth.
- Lighten recipes with turkey sausage, half-and-half, or extra veggies.
- Freeze portions for up to 3 months—reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
