Copycat Olive Garden Dumpling Soup – Easy & Delicious!

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Olive Garden Dumpling Soup. This creamy, hearty dish is packed with tender dumplings, savory chicken, and a flavorful broth infused with Italian herbs. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a cozy hug on a cold day.

If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you know their soups are legendary. While their Chicken & Gnocchi Soup and Zuppa Toscana often steal the spotlight, their dumpling soup is an underrated gem. The good news? You don’t have to visit the restaurant to enjoy it. With this easy, homemade version, you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen!

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through making a rich and creamy broth, crafting light and fluffy dumplings from scratch, and combining everything into a delicious, restaurant-quality soup. Get ready to impress your family with a dish that’s just as satisfying as the original!

What Is Olive Garden Dumpling Soup?

A Hearty, Creamy Italian-Inspired Soup

Olive Garden Dumpling Soup is a rich and comforting dish that features pillowy dumplings floating in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s often compared to chicken and gnocchi soup but has a heartier texture thanks to the homemade dumplings.

The broth is infused with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs, giving it a deep, savory flavor. Chunks of tender chicken add protein, while carrots and celery bring a slight sweetness and balance. The dumplings, made from a simple flour-based dough, cook directly in the broth, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

How It Compares to Other Olive Garden Soups

Olive Garden is known for its incredible lineup of soups, and dumpling soup holds its own among the fan favorites. Here’s how it compares:

• Chicken & Gnocchi Soup – Similar in creaminess but uses potato-based gnocchi instead of flour dumplings.
• Zuppa Toscana – Has a thinner, slightly spicy broth with sausage and kale instead of dumplings.
• Minestrone – A lighter, tomato-based soup with beans and pasta instead of a rich, creamy base.

Why People Love It

Fans of Olive Garden Dumpling Soup rave about its rich, velvety texture and the way the dumplings absorb the broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or when you need something warm and satisfying. Plus, making it at home allows you to tweak the flavors, adjust the ingredients, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal anytime you want!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Olive Garden Dumpling Soup, but here are just a few:

1. Comfort in Every Spoonful

This soup is the definition of comfort food. With its rich, creamy broth, tender dumplings, and perfectly seasoned flavors, it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

2. Easy to Make at Home

You don’t have to visit Olive Garden to enjoy this delicious soup. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate it in your own kitchen, saving time and money while enjoying the same restaurant-quality taste.

3. Customizable to Your Taste

Want to add extra veggies? Prefer a lighter broth? Need a dairy-free or gluten-free option? This recipe is easy to tweak, so you can make it just the way you like it.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup stores well, making it a great option for leftovers. Prepare a big batch, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go for the next few days.

5. Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love this soup. The creamy broth and soft dumplings make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be requested again and again.

Ingredients for Olive Garden Dumpling Soup

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need a combination of fresh, simple ingredients.

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 small onion, diced – Brings depth of flavor.
• 2 carrots, diced – Adds a touch of sweetness.
• 2 celery stalks, diced – A classic soup ingredient for balance.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory taste.
• 4 cups chicken broth – The foundation of the soup.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a velvety, creamy texture.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme for that signature Olive Garden flavor.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – For seasoning.
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base of the dumplings.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps make them light and fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon salt – For flavor.
• ½ cup milk – Adds moisture.
• 1 egg – Helps bind the dough together.

Optional Additions:

• Spinach or kale – For added greens.
• Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled on top for extra richness.
• Red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat.

With these ingredients, you’ll be able to make a hearty, creamy, and utterly delicious dumpling soup that rivals anything you’d find at Olive Garden.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Olive Garden Dumpling Soup at home is easier than you might think!

Follow these simple steps to create a rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of soup.

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

1. Sauté the Aromatics – In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the Broth and Seasonings – Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Incorporate the Chicken – Add 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken to the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Make the Dumplings

1. Prepare the Dumpling Dough – In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup of milk and 1 egg. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be slightly sticky but not runny.

Step 3: Cook the Dumplings in the Soup

1. Drop the Dumplings In – Using a spoon or small scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering soup. Try to keep them evenly spaced so they don’t stick together.
2. Let Them Cook – Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings simmer for 10-12 minutes. They will puff up and float to the surface when they are fully cooked. You can test one by cutting it open—if the inside is fluffy and not doughy, they’re ready!

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

1. Stir in the Cream – Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and gently stir to create a smooth, velvety texture.
2. Taste and Adjust – Add more salt or pepper if needed. If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
3. Serve and Enjoy – Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with garlic bread or Olive Garden-style breadsticks for the ultimate experience.

Tips for the Best Olive Garden Dumpling Soup

1. Keep the Dumplings Light and Fluffy

• Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can make the dumplings dense.
• Make sure the soup is at a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil) when adding the dumplings—too much heat can make them fall apart.

2. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

Shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option. If using raw chicken, cook it in the broth until fully tender, then shred before adding the dumplings.

3. Adjust the Thickness to Your Liking

• If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the broth before adding the dumplings.
• For a thinner consistency, simply add a little extra broth.

4. Make It Even More Flavorful

• A splash of white wine in the broth can add depth to the flavor.
• For a cheesy twist, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan before serving.

5. Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dumplings may absorb some broth, so add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
• Freeze: Dumplings can become soggy when frozen, so if you plan to freeze the soup, consider making the dumplings fresh when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

A warm bowl of Olive Garden Dumpling Soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even better.

Here are some delicious serving ideas:

1. Classic Bread Pairings

• Garlic Breadsticks – Just like at Olive Garden, soft and buttery breadsticks are the perfect complement.
• Crusty Italian Bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is great for soaking up the creamy broth.
• Focaccia – A herby, olive-oil-infused focaccia adds a flavorful touch.

2. Fresh Salads for Balance

• Olive Garden-Style House Salad – Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, black olives, red onions, croutons, and Parmesan, dressed with a tangy Italian dressing.
• Caesar Salad – A creamy Caesar pairs beautifully with the rich soup.
• Caprese Salad – Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze for a fresh contrast.

3. Light Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables – A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds a healthy touch.
• Bruschetta – A simple tomato and basil bruschetta makes for a refreshing side.

4. Beverage Pairings

• White Wine – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy soup.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade – Refreshing drinks that balance the richness of the dish.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon – A light and palate-cleansing option.

Conclusion

If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s comforting soups, this homemade Dumpling Soup is a must-try! It’s creamy, flavorful, and filled with soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth. The best part? You can make it right in your own kitchen with simple ingredients.

This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests with a restaurant-quality dish. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add extra veggies, tweak the seasonings, or make it lighter to fit your preferences.

Now that you have everything you need to make this Olive Garden Dumpling Soup, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking! If you try this recipe, be sure to share your thoughts in the comments. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought dumplings instead of homemade?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made dumplings or even small gnocchi as a substitute. However, homemade dumplings give the best texture and absorb the flavors of the broth beautifully.

2. How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the dumplings and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free. You can also swap the dumplings for gluten-free gnocchi or rice.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The broth and chicken can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. However, it’s best to make the dumplings fresh when reheating, as they can become too soft when stored in the soup for long periods.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

The broth and chicken freeze well, but dumplings can become mushy after thawing. If you plan to freeze it, store the soup without the dumplings and add fresh ones when reheating.