Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Soup | Delicious Olive Garden Copycat
Cozy Up with Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Soup: A Weeknight Winner!
Craving a comforting, flavorful soup that comes together in a flash? Look no further than our Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Soup! This vibrant Italian-inspired soup is packed with savory chicken, hearty potatoes, and just the right amount of spice. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Zuppa Toscana, traditionally a Tuscan soup, is known for its rustic flavors and simple ingredients. Our Instant Pot version streamlines the process without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. The pressure cooker does all the heavy lifting, resulting in tender potatoes, perfectly cooked chicken, and a creamy, flavorful broth.
What makes this Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana special?
- Quick & Easy: From start to finish, this soup is ready in under 30 minutes! The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time.
- Flavorful: The combination of chicken, potatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, and a touch of red pepper flakes creates a truly unforgettable flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or spinach.
- Creamy & Comforting: The half and half and Parmesan cheese create a rich and creamy texture that will warm you from the inside out.
Tips for the Best Zuppa Toscana:
- Low-Sodium Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the soup.
- Don’t Skip the Pesto: Basil pesto adds a unique and delicious flavor that elevates the soup.
- Quick Release Carefully: When quick releasing the pressure, be cautious of the hot steam.
- Optional Bacon: Crispy bacon is a fantastic addition, but feel free to omit it if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Zuppa Toscana with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping, or a simple side salad. It’s also great for meal prepping – leftovers taste even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Italian sausage (removed from the casing) or ground turkey would also work well in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can! Simply substitute the half and half with a plant-based cream alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, but the texture of the potatoes may change slightly. It’s best to freeze the soup without the kale, and add it after reheating.
Q: What kind of potatoes are best?
A: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well. Yukon Golds will give a creamier texture.
Q: Can I add spinach instead of kale?
A: Yes, spinach is a great substitute for kale. Add it during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted.
Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 min garlic
- 1 lb potatoes
- 1 stalk celery
- 6 cups chicken broth low-sodium
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup half and half
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- optional bacon
- 5 oz kale
Instructions
- Turn on your Instant Pot and set to 'Saute' function. When ready, add ground chicken and onions and cook until browned. This will take approximately 4-6 minutes.
- Add in the garlic, potatoes and celery and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Turn your Instant Pot off.
- Add broth, basil pesto, lemon juice, garlic pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt.
- Turn your Instant Pot to 'Pressure Cook' or on Manual high and cook for 8 minutes.
- When timer beeps, quick release pressure or 'Venting' to release steam fully.
- Once the steam is fully released, remove the lip and stir in cream, Parmesan and kale. Continue to cook on warm or saute until the kale is soft or slightly wilted, about 5 minutes.
- Top with optional bacon, if you prefer.
- Serve and enjoy!!
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