Creamy Zuppa Toscana Soup

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly satisfying **Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana Soup**! This beloved recipe perfectly blends the robust flavors of savory Italian sausage, creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, and fresh, tender kale in a decadent, rich broth. Finished with crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this homemade rendition rivals your favorite restaurant version, offering warmth and flavor in every spoonful.

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Bring the Authentic Restaurant Experience Home with Zuppa Toscana!

As a huge fan of Zuppa Toscana, I’ve perfected my stovetop version over the years, which has become one of the most cherished recipes on my site. However, I knew there was a demand for an equally flavorful and creamy slow cooker rendition. After countless test runs and thoughtful adjustments to my go-to recipe, I’m thrilled to share this slow cooker masterpiece. It delivers the same rich taste and luxurious texture with minimal effort, making it a regular feature in my kitchen rotation.

While this isn’t a traditional Italian Tuscan soup, it’s a delightful and highly successful copycat of Olive Garden’s® famous Zuppa Toscana. This recipe is generously loaded with spicy Italian sausage, wonderfully crispy bacon, perfectly cooked creamy potatoes, and vibrant kale, all harmoniously simmered in a profoundly savory broth. If you adore the original restaurant soup, prepare to be amazed by how this homemade version captures that iconic flavor—perhaps even surpassing it!

If you enjoy recreating restaurant favorites at home, be sure to explore my other popular Olive Garden copycat recipes. My Chicken Gnocchi Soup and Garden Salad are just as irresistible and perfect companions to this Zuppa Toscana.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana

This Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It brings together robust flavors and comforting textures in a way that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a family favorite:

• **Effortless Preparation:** The beauty of a slow cooker is its ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary with minimal hands-on time. After a quick initial sauté, your crockpot does all the hard work, allowing you to go about your day while dinner simmers to perfection.
• **Rich, Deep Flavor:** Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods. The Italian sausage, garlic, onion, and chicken stock infuse every part of the soup with incredible taste.
• **Creamy, Satisfying Texture:** The combination of tender Yukon Gold potatoes, wilted kale, and heavy cream creates a luxurious and comforting texture that’s incredibly satisfying. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal, yet smooth and easy to enjoy.
• **Perfect Olive Garden Copycat:** If you crave Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana, this recipe is your answer. It captures the essence of the restaurant classic with its distinctive balance of spicy, savory, and creamy notes.
• **Customizable to Your Taste:** Whether you prefer a milder soup or one with an extra kick, this recipe is highly adaptable. Adjust the type of Italian sausage or the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
• **Ideal for Meal Prep:** This soup makes fantastic leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors deepen. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it perfect for preparing in larger batches for future meals.

Essential Ingredients for Your Zuppa Toscana

Crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and how to make the most of each component:

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana Soup

Making this comforting Zuppa Toscana in your slow cooker is easier than you think! Follow these detailed steps to create a hearty and flavorful meal:

1. Brown the Italian Sausage: Begin by heating a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then crumble in your ground Italian sausage. Allow it to cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s deeply browned and fully cooked through. This browning step is crucial for developing rich flavor. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to your slow cooker, leaving any rendered grease behind in the pot.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, with any remaining sausage drippings (add a tiny drizzle more olive oil if the pot seems too dry), add your finely diced yellow onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing its sweet aroma. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Create the Thickener: Sprinkle two tablespoons of flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1 minute, allowing the flour to cook out its raw taste. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of chicken stock, stirring vigorously to prevent lumps, until the mixture thickens into a smooth paste. This roux will help create a beautifully creamy soup. Use a spatula to scrape this flavorful mixture into the slow cooker with the sausage.
4. Combine Main Ingredients: Pour the remaining chicken stock into the slow cooker. Add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes (no need to peel them!), red pepper flakes (if using for a touch of heat), and dried thyme. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are well combined and the potatoes are submerged in the liquid.
5. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker and let the flavors meld and the ingredients soften. Cook on the LOW setting for 5–6 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on the HIGH setting for 3–4 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Add Kale and Cream: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream and the coarsely chopped kale. Cover the slow cooker again and allow it to simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the kale has wilted to your desired tenderness. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot, creamy Zuppa Toscana soup into bowls. Generously top each serving with plenty of crispy diced bacon and a shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For the ultimate experience, serve alongside warm, toasted buttered bread for dipping.

Expert Recipe Tips for the Best Zuppa Toscana

Achieving Zuppa Toscana perfection is easy with these helpful tips:

• Customizing the Spice Level: The beauty of homemade soup is tailoring it to your palate. If you prefer a milder soup, opt for mild Italian sausage and omit the red pepper flakes entirely. For those who love a bit of heat, choose hot Italian sausage and consider adding a pinch more red pepper flakes than suggested, tasting as you go.
• Managing Grease: Italian sausage can release a fair amount of grease, which contributes to flavor but can also make the soup overly rich for some. It’s normal to have some grease. To reduce it, make sure to drain the cooked sausage thoroughly on paper towels before adding it to the slow cooker. Additionally, after the soup has finished cooking and cooled for 15-20 minutes, any excess grease will rise to the top, making it easy to skim off with a spoon or ladle.
• Achieving Your Preferred Thickness: If you find your soup is thinner than you’d like after cooking, there are a couple of tricks to thicken it. You can either add a few more diced potatoes and let them cook until very soft, then mash a portion of them directly in the soup. Alternatively, create a slurry by whisking a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup until thickened to your desired consistency.
• Enhancing Flavor with a Parmesan Rind: For an extra layer of savory depth, drop a Parmesan cheese rind into the slow cooker along with the chicken stock and potatoes. It will slowly release its rich, salty, umami flavors into the broth as the soup cooks. Just remember to remove the rind before serving!
• Using Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme works well, a sprig or two of fresh thyme added during the slow cooking process can elevate the aroma and flavor of the soup significantly.

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5 from 8 votes

Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana Soup

By
Chelsea Lords

This Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana is a hearty and flavorful soup packed with tender kale, savory Italian sausage, creamy Yukon gold potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth. Garnish with crispy bacon and Parmesan cheese for a truly delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

3 hours

Total Time:

3 hours
20 minutes

Servings:

6
servings

Video

Equipment

• 6-quart Crock-Pot
• Large cast-iron pot

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage mild or hot
• 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (approximately 1 onion)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 (32-ounce) container chicken stock or broth
• 1-1/2 pounds baby gold potatoes diced to 1/2-inch pieces (about 4 cups)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
• 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme optional
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 packed cups coarsely chopped kale
• 8 slices bacon cooked until crispy and diced
• freshly grated Parmesan cheese optional, for garnish
• Hearty buttered bread optional, for serving

Instructions

• Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and ground Italian sausage. Let it cook for 1 minute, then use a wooden spoon to break it up and brown it thoroughly. Once deeply browned, transfer the cooked sausage to your slow cooker, leaving any rendered grease in the pot.
• In the same pot, add the diced onions (add a drizzle of oil if needed) and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup of chicken stock until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Use a spatula to scrape this thickened mixture from the pot into the slow cooker.
• Add the remaining chicken stock, diced baby gold potatoes, red pepper flakes (if desired), and dried thyme to the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 5–6 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are completely tender.
• Stir in the fresh kale and heavy cream. Cover and cook for another 5–10 minutes, or until the kale has wilted to your liking. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• Serve the hot soup garnished with crispy bacon and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with toasted buttered bread for dipping.

Recipe Notes

Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are highly recommended because of their tender skin and creamy texture, which means no peeling is necessary. If you opt for russet potatoes, remember to peel them before dicing as their skin is tougher.

Storage: To store leftover Zuppa Toscana Soup, ensure it has cooled completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. For freezing, transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving
|
Calories: 505 kcal
|
Carbohydrates: 10 g
|
Protein: 19 g
|
Fat: 43 g
|
Saturated Fat: 19 g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5 g
|
Monounsaturated Fat: 17 g
|
Trans Fat: 0.01 g
|
Cholesterol: 115 mg
|
Sodium: 928 mg
|
Potassium: 535 mg
|
Fiber: 1 g
|
Sugar: 4 g
|
Vitamin A: 2847 IU
|
Vitamin C: 25 mg
|
Calcium: 109 mg
|
Iron: 2 mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

Perfect Pairings: What To Serve With Zuppa Toscana Soup

While Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana is a meal in itself, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

• Bruschetta: Light, refreshing, and bursting with fresh tomato and basil flavors, classic bruschetta on toasted baguette slices offers a delightful contrast to the rich soup and makes for a perfect appetizer.
• Crusty Bread: A staple for any hearty soup, warm, crusty bread is essential. Whether it’s a simple buttered loaf, a cheesy bread, or aromatic garlic bread, it’s perfect for soaking up every drop of that creamy broth. Try my recipes for no-knead bread, cheesy bread, or garlic bread.
• Focaccia: Soft, airy, and often infused with herbs and olive oil, focaccia bread is an excellent choice for dipping. Its slightly chewy texture and savory flavor complement the soup beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp and tangy Caesar salad provides a refreshing balance to the rich and creamy Zuppa Toscana. The sharp dressing and crunchy croutons offer a lovely textural and flavor counterpoint.
• Breadsticks: Soft, warm, and often garlicky, breadsticks are a classic accompaniment to Italian-inspired soups. They’re perfect for dipping and add a familiar touch of comfort. My dinner rolls also make an excellent substitute.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the soup, offering a fresh, palate-cleansing element.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zuppa Toscana

Here are answers to some common questions about making this delicious slow cooker Zuppa Toscana:

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional for Zuppa Toscana, you can experiment. Ground chicken or turkey sausage can be used for a leaner option. Just be sure to season them well, as they might be milder in flavor. You could also try a spicy chorizo for a different kick.

Is it necessary to brown the sausage and sauté the onions/garlic?

Yes, these steps are highly recommended! Browning the sausage develops a rich, savory flavor and a nice texture. Sautéing the onions and garlic creates an aromatic base that is crucial for the soup’s overall depth of flavor. Skipping these steps would result in a less flavorful and complex soup.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Instead of heavy cream, use full-fat coconut milk for creaminess. Be aware that coconut milk will impart a subtle coconut flavor, which may slightly alter the traditional Zuppa Toscana taste. Ensure your chicken stock is also dairy-free.

What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and thin skin. If they are unavailable, Russet potatoes are a good alternative, but they must be peeled first. Red potatoes can also work, providing a firmer texture that holds up well during slow cooking.

How can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Feel free to customize! You can add finely diced carrots or celery along with the onions to sauté for extra flavor and nutrients. You could also stir in some spinach at the end along with the kale for a boost of greens.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is excellent for making ahead! The flavors often deepen overnight. Prepare it as directed, let it cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker on a low setting. For best results, add the kale and cream when reheating if you prefer fresh, vibrant greens.

Indulge in Homemade Warmth: Your New Favorite Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana!

This Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the comforts of homemade goodness with minimal effort. Imagine coming home to the aroma of a hearty, creamy soup simmering to perfection, ready to be ladled into bowls. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply seeking a comforting weeknight meal, this Olive Garden copycat delivers on all fronts – rich flavor, satisfying textures, and unparalleled convenience. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and prepare to make a family favorite that will warm your heart and soul, one delicious spoonful at a time. Enjoy!