Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

This comforting Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet lunch, this hearty Italian-inspired soup delivers warmth and satisfaction. Loaded with ground beef, beans, and fresh vegetables, it’s simple yet bursting with flavor. Each bowl is a reminder of the beloved classic from Olive Garden, making it ideal for family meals or special gatherings.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For Seasoning
• For the Liquids
• For the Beans and Pasta
• Optional Garnishes
• How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Cook the Meat
• Step 3: Add Vegetables
• Step 4: Season It Up
• Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes & Broth
• Step 6: Add Beans
• Step 7: Cook the Pasta
• Step 8: Adjust Consistency
• Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!
• How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• With Fresh Bread
• With Salad
• With Cheese
• With Seasonal Vegetables
• How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?
• How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup last?
• Can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• Is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from beef and beans, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins for a personalized touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats wonderfully!
• Comforting Flavor: The blend of herbs and spices creates a rich taste that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering all ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli soup is inspired by Olive Garden’s beloved classic. Loaded with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta, it’s a simple, satisfying Italian-style soup that’s perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef or ½ lb ground beef + ½ lb Italian sausage
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 stalks celery, sliced
• 1–2 cups carrots, sliced or diced
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed

For Seasoning

• 1½ teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Pinch of red pepper flakes

For the Liquids

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth or chicken broth (or 1 tsp bouillon per cup of water)
• 1 cup additional water, if needed
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained (light or dark)
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Optional Garnishes

• Parsley, dried or fresh (optional, for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

Add the ground beef (or beef and sausage mix) and cook until browned. Break it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Then add crushed garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Season It Up

Mix in the dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes & Broth

Add the diced tomatoes along with their juice, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir everything together thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a boil while tasting to adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Add Beans

Once boiling, stir in the drained kidney beans and Great Northern beans. Continue boiling for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to stir in the ditalini pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente—usually around 8–10 minutes.

Step 8: Adjust Consistency

If you find that your soup has thickened too much during cooking, feel free to add up to 1 cup of additional water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve hot while garnishing with parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. This hearty soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides to create a fulfilling meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread – Crisp and flavorful, it’s perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
• Italian Breadsticks – Soft and warm, these are a classic pairing that complements the soup beautifully.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad – The creaminess of the dressing balances the soup’s heartiness.
• Mixed Greens Salad – Light and refreshing, it adds a nice crunch to your meal.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle freshly grated cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese Sticks – Crunchy on the outside and gooey inside, they make a fun side.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition.
• Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet nutritious, it pairs well with the soup’s flavors.

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How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is as delicious as possible, follow these handy tips. Each step will help you achieve that comforting, restaurant-quality taste at home.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
• Control Seasoning – Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences for a balanced dish.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta – Cook pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking in the soup.
• Add Beans Last – Stir in beans towards the end to maintain their texture and flavor.
• Experiment with Herbs – Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for added depth.
• Adjust Thickness – If the soup thickens too much, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots – Soft dough twisted into knots brushed with garlic butter; perfect for dipping!
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil; a light option that complements the soup’s richness.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Baked mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs add a savory bite.
4. Antipasto Platter – A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies provides variety.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for a fresh appetizer.
6. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad brings a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth enhance flavor. Always choose the best ingredients you can find.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing your vegetables and meat builds a rich base for the soup. Take the time to do this for a deeper flavor.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go! Adjusting seasoning at different stages ensures your soup is flavorful and well-balanced.
• Adding pasta too early: If you overcook the pasta, it may become mushy. Add it towards the end for perfect texture.
• Ignoring consistency: If your soup is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth or water. Aim for a soup that’s hearty yet not overly thick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool down before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian soup made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta in a rich broth.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or additional beans for a delicious vegetarian version of this classic soup.

How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.

Can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.

Is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup healthy?

Yes! It contains protein from beans and meat while being loaded with nutritious vegetables, making it a wholesome meal option.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and easily customizable based on your tastes. Try adding different vegetables or spices to make it your own!