Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

This Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. Rich and hearty, this soup combines the flavors of ground beef, beans, and fresh vegetables to create a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting friends for lunch, this recipe will impress with its satisfying flavors and simple preparation.

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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 Soup Base
• Seasonings
• For the Liquid Base
• Beans and Pasta
• For Garnish
• How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Cook the Meat
• Step 3: Add Vegetables
• Step 4: Stir in Seasonings
• Step 5: Add Liquids
• Step 6: Incorporate Beans
• Step 7: Cook the Pasta
• Step 8: Adjust Consistency
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• With Fresh Bread
• As a Main Dish
• In a Bread Bowl
• Garnished Creatively
• 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 do I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup take to cook?
• Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and beans, this soup keeps you satisfied.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Comfort Food Classic: Ideal for chilly days, this soup brings warmth and comfort to your table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for simmering.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring safety by minimizing slips.

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 Soup 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

Seasonings

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

For the Liquid Base

• 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

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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):
1. Cook until browned.
2. Break it apart as it cooks for even browning.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots:
1. Cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
2. Add crushed garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Stir in Seasonings

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

Step 5: Add Liquids

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth:
1. Stir well to combine.
2. Bring to a boil.
3. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Incorporate Beans

Add the drained beans:
– Continue boiling while stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling:
1. Stir in ditalini pasta.
2. Cook according to package directions until al dente (usually about 8–10 minutes).

Step 8: Adjust Consistency

If the soup thickens too much:
– Add up to 1 cup additional water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot:
– Garnish with parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your preferences. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, enhancing its rich flavors and making your meal even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Serve slices of warm, crusty Italian bread for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: A classic choice, these complement the flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.

As a Main Dish

• Accompanied by Salad: A light side salad can balance the richness of the soup, providing freshness with greens and veggies.
• Paired with Grilled Cheese: For a comforting combo, serve with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for kids and adults alike.

In a Bread Bowl

• Bread Bowl Presentation: Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and rustic presentation that adds to the meal’s heartiness.

Garnished Creatively

• With Fresh Herbs: Top with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an aromatic touch.
• Sprinkled Cheese: Offer grated Parmesan on the side for those who enjoy a cheesy finish.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

To achieve the perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your soup is flavorful and satisfying every time you make it.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the taste of your soup significantly.
• Balance Seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjust salt and pepper gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Add pasta towards the end of cooking to keep it al dente, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy.
• Experiment with Beans: You can mix different types of beans to add variety in flavor and texture.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better when made ahead. The flavors meld beautifully overnight in the fridge.
• Freeze Leftovers: Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months for an easy future meal.

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Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this delicious soup perfectly.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an impressive starter.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs provide an excellent appetizer option before your main meal.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle adds brightness to your table.
5. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip served with tortilla chips or pita bread creates a great shareable dish.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors that pair well with the soup’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong meat: Opting for only ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Consider mixing in Italian sausage for added depth.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by adding them at the right time.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasonings can result in bland soup. Always taste before serving and adjust with salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Skipping the pasta cooking time: Not following package instructions for pasta can lead to overcooked or undercooked pasta. Keep an eye on the clock when adding ditalini pasta.
• Ignoring texture adjustments: If your soup becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add water. The right consistency is vital for enjoying this dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• item It will last for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• item Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• item It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until warm, about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through, until hot (2-5 minutes).
• Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat on the stovetop until heated through, about 10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup.

What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian-American soup that combines ground beef, beans, vegetables, and ditalini pasta in a rich broth.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the meat with mushrooms or additional beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.

How do I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or swap the beans according to your preference for different textures.

How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup take to cook?

The total cooking time is around 40 minutes, making it a quick option for lunch or dinner.

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

While ditalini is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is not just comforting; it’s versatile too! Perfect for any meal, this soup allows for numerous customization options based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy its hearty flavors!