Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Copycat Recipe (Crock Pot or Stove)

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I have made this on the stove and in the crock pot and I really enjoyed it.  I mashed the potatoes just a bit with a potato masher before adding in the cream and kale.  While this isn't necessary, I like to have potato pieces of different sizes for texture.

I believe Olive Garden uses Russet Potatoes and Italian Sausage for this soup in the restaurant. However, you can modify this recipe based on what you have available or for your dietary needs.  You could swap out the Italian Sausage for turkey sausage or you can leave the cream out completely.  You could also swap out the kale for spinach. 

Makes 8 Servings

Ingredients:
1 pound of cooked Italian sausage links; browned and drained

Approx. 3 cups of potatoes (skin on)  sliced or cubed
(1) 32 ounce container of chicken broth                  

3/4 cup chopped yellow onion

2 minced garlic cloves
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

2 cups kale - washed, dried, and finely shredded
1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream

Crock Pot Directions:
(1) Brown the sausage links in a pan OR cook it in a 300 degree preheated oven on a sheet pan for 25 minutes (or until fully cooked). Cut links in half lengthwise, then dice into 1/2-inch slices.
(2) Place cooked Italian sausage, chicken broth, garlic, potatoes, onion and pepper in slow cooker.
(3) Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours until potatoes are cooked and soft.
(4) Optional: Mash the potatoes a bit with a potato masher for texture.
(5)  Turn the crock pot off and add the kale. Return the lid and let sit for 5 minutes.
(6) Add whipping cream and serve.  

Stove Directions:
(1) Brown the sausage in a pan or cook it in a preheated 300 degree oven on a sheet pan for 25 minutes (or until cooked). Cut links in half lengthwise, then dice into 1/2-inch slices.               

(2) Place onions and garlic in a large saucepan with a teaspoon of oil or non-stick spray and cook over medium heat until tender.

(3) Add chicken broth, sausage, potatoes and pepper.  Simmer 15 minutes or until potatoes are cooked.     
(4) Optional: Mash the potatoes a bit with a potato masher for texture.          

(5) Add sausage, kale, and cream. Simmer 4 minutes and serve. 

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