Quick & Easy Olive Garden Kale Soup Recipe

Olive Garden’s Kale Soup has become a staple for many who crave a warm, comforting meal. Known for its rich, creamy texture and hearty flavor, this soup is a perfect combination of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a delicious, creamy broth.

The good news? You can recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen! Whether you’re craving a comforting winter meal or just want to impress your guests with a restaurant-style dish, this homemade version of the Olive Garden Kale Soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Making this soup at home means you can enjoy the same great flavors without the wait or the price tag of dining out. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and absolutely satisfying—just like the version you love from Olive Garden.

What Makes Olive Garden Kale Soup So Special?

The magic of Olive Garden Kale Soup lies in its balance of flavors and textures. What sets it apart from other soups is the combination of ingredients, from the spicy Italian sausage to the creamy broth, the tenderness of the potatoes, and the slight bitterness of fresh kale. Each spoonful offers something unique, making it an unforgettable experience for the taste buds.

One of the standout features of this soup is its creamy base. While some soups might feel heavy or overly rich, Olive Garden’s kale soup manages to be creamy without overwhelming the palate.

The addition of heavy cream creates a luscious, velvety texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully. The Italian sausage adds a touch of spiciness, creating a perfect balance with the mild potatoes and hearty kale.

Another reason this soup is so beloved is its versatility. The ingredients come together effortlessly, making it a comfort food that can easily be customized to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

It’s equally delicious whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering with friends and family. This combination of bold, fresh, and hearty ingredients is what truly makes Olive Garden’s Kale Soup a timeless favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Olive Garden Kale Soup

To make this comforting Olive Garden Kale Soup at home, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful dish.

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 2 cups heavy cream (for that signature creamy texture)
• 1 bunch fresh kale, chopped (curly kale works best)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Olive oil (for sautéing the sausage and vegetables)

These ingredients come together to create the rich, savory, and creamy soup that you know and love. The key to making it truly shine is the balance of flavors—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that perfect bowl of comfort.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Olive Garden Kale Soup

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to make the perfect Olive Garden Kale Soup from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage

Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and once hot, crumble the Italian sausage into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces. Cook the sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Once the sausage is cooked, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. Leave some of the rendered fat in the pot to cook the vegetables, as it adds extra flavor to the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them in the remaining sausage fat over medium heat until the onions become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

This step is crucial as it helps develop a flavor base for the soup. The aroma of the garlic and onion will infuse the soup with rich depth, so be sure to stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Once the onions and garlic are softened, it’s time to add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine the ingredients, making sure the potatoes are evenly distributed.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

The potatoes will help thicken the soup as they cook and break down slightly, so don’t worry if they begin to soften and dissolve into the broth.

Step 4: Stir in Kale

After the potatoes are tender, add the chopped kale to the pot. Stir to incorporate the kale into the broth, and let it cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender. The kale will add a beautiful pop of color to the soup and a slight bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy broth.

Step 5: Cream it Up

Now, it’s time to make this soup truly indulgent. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. The cream will create a smooth, velvety texture, giving the soup its signature richness.

At this stage, you can taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little extra heat.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together. The potatoes will continue to soften, and the soup will thicken slightly. Give it one final taste check, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.

Once everything is perfectly combined, remove the pot from the heat. Your Olive Garden Kale Soup is ready to be served!

Tips for Perfecting Olive Garden Kale Soup at Home

Making the perfect Olive Garden Kale Soup at home is all about balance and technique.

Here are a few tips to ensure your soup turns out just like the restaurant version:

1. Don’t Overcook the Kale

Kale can turn mushy if cooked for too long, so be sure to add it toward the end of the cooking process. This will keep the kale tender but still vibrant and full of texture. Aim for 5-7 minutes of simmering after adding the kale to the soup.

2. Adjust the Consistency

If you prefer a thicker soup, allow the potatoes to cook longer and mash some of them in the pot with the back of your spoon. This will naturally thicken the soup. For a lighter, broth-based soup, simply reduce the simmering time or add a little extra chicken broth.

3. Sauté the Sausage Well

Browning the sausage deeply adds flavor, so don’t rush this step. The caramelized bits left in the pot help to infuse the soup with rich, savory notes. Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and nicely browned before removing it from the pot.

4. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, always use fresh kale and high-quality sausage. Fresh kale has more flavor and nutrients than pre-washed or frozen varieties. Similarly, the sausage’s freshness will make a significant difference in the final taste of the soup.

5. Season in Layers

Taste as you cook, and adjust seasoning gradually. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes bit by bit. The soup will come together as the flavors meld, but seasoning throughout the process helps ensure every ingredient is properly balanced.

6. Let It Rest Before Serving

If possible, let the soup rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Like many soups and stews, Olive Garden Kale Soup improves in flavor after sitting for a while, allowing the ingredients to fully mingle. Plus, the soup will thicken a bit more as it cools.

Variations on Olive Garden Kale Soup

While the classic version of Olive Garden Kale Soup is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to mix it up and make it your own.

Here are some variations that you can try:

1. Vegetarian Kale Soup

For a vegetarian version of this soup, simply replace the sausage with a plant-based protein such as crumbled tempeh, mushrooms, or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the heavy cream in favor of coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.

2. Spicy Sausage Option

If you love spice, opt for spicy Italian sausage instead of the mild variety. This will give the soup a bit of a kick. You can also add extra red pepper flakes to enhance the heat level.

3. Dairy-Free Version

For a dairy-free version, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Both will add a rich, creamy texture without any dairy. Just be mindful that the flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.

4. Add Extra Veggies

Feel free to throw in some additional vegetables to make the soup heartier. Carrots, celery, or even parsnips can add more flavor and texture. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and sauté with the onions and garlic.

5. Add Bacon or Pancetta

For a smoky, salty twist, try adding crispy bacon or pancetta to the soup. This will give the soup an extra layer of flavor that complements the sausage. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and stir it into the soup just before serving.

6. Lighter Version

To make a lighter version of this soup, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. You can also substitute some of the potatoes with cauliflower to reduce the carbs, creating a lower-calorie alternative without sacrificing the soup’s delicious texture.

7. More Herbs and Spices

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. These will infuse the soup with an aromatic fragrance, making the soup feel even more cozy. Just remember to remove any woody stems or bay leaves before serving.

How to Serve and Pair Olive Garden Kale Soup

Olive Garden Kale Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages.

Here are some ideas to elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable:

1. Serve with Crusty Bread

A warm, crusty loaf of bread is the perfect companion to this creamy soup. Whether it’s a rustic baguette, sourdough, or focaccia, the bread will soak up the rich broth, making every bite even more satisfying. You can also serve the soup with garlic bread for an extra punch of flavor.

2. Pair with a Simple Salad

A fresh salad is a great way to balance the richness of the soup. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy, hearty soup. For a more Mediterranean twist, you can add olives, cucumbers, and feta cheese to your salad.

3. Wine Pairings

For wine lovers, Olive Garden Kale Soup pairs well with a variety of wines. If you prefer red wine, a medium-bodied Pinot Noir or Chianti will complement the sausage and creamy broth. For white wine drinkers, a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc is a great option, as it cuts through the richness of the cream while enhancing the herbal flavors of the kale.

4. Garnish with Parmesan

To bring the soup even closer to the Olive Garden version, consider garnishing each bowl with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a satisfying finishing touch.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

This soup is versatile enough to serve at a casual weeknight dinner or at a special occasion. It can easily be made in advance for a family gathering or dinner party. The comforting nature of the soup makes it especially perfect for colder months or when you need a cozy, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Olive Garden Kale Soup is a rich and hearty dish that brings together the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight meal or a gathering with friends and family, this homemade version will surely impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious soup that rivals the restaurant’s iconic version.

By making it at home, you can also customize the soup to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs, whether that means adding more spice, using plant-based ingredients, or making it lighter.

Don’t forget the finishing touches—some freshly grated Parmesan, crusty bread, and a refreshing side salad—and you’ve got yourself a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze Olive Garden Kale Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Olive Garden Kale Soup! To do so, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When reheating, you may want to add a little extra broth or cream, as the soup may thicken after freezing.

2. Can I make Olive Garden Kale Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had more time to meld together. Simply store the soup in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and reheat on the stove when you’re ready to serve.

3. How can I make the soup spicier?

If you like your soup with an extra kick, try adding more red pepper flakes, or opt for spicy Italian sausage instead of mild sausage. You could also stir in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for additional heat.

4. Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?

While fresh kale is preferred for the best texture, you can use frozen kale in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup to avoid excess water diluting the broth.

5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version or need a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, coconut cream, or a plant-based milk like almond or cashew milk. Keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change, but it will still be creamy and delicious.