Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

This Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. Perfect for both cozy dinners and gatherings, this hearty soup combines ground beef, beans, and pasta with a rich tomato base. Each spoonful bursts with flavor and texture, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For the Broth
• For the Beans
• For the Pasta
• For Garnish
• How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
• Step 2: Cook the Meat
• Step 3: Add Vegetables
• Step 4: Stir in Seasonings
• Step 5: Combine Tomato Ingredients
• Step 6: Add Beans
• Step 7: Cook the Pasta
• Step 8: Adjust Consistency
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Pair with Bread
• Add a Salad
• Offer Toppings
• 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
• How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup last?
• Can I freeze Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• What can I serve with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?
• What makes Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup unique?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup will keep you satisfied for hours.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or beans to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a warm bowl of soup! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for stirring.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Knife: A good knife ensures safe and quick chopping of vegetables.

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

For the Broth

• 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

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

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

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

Step 2: Cook the Meat

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

Step 3: Add Vegetables

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

Step 4: Stir in Seasonings

Stir in the dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes until combined.

Step 5: Combine Tomato Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes along with tomato sauce and broth. Stir well to combine. Bring to a boil while tasting for salt and pepper seasoning adjustments.

Step 6: Add Beans

Stir in the drained beans into the boiling mixture.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling again, stir in ditalini pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente (usually around 8–10 minutes).

Step 8: Adjust Consistency

If your soup thickens too much during cooking, add up to 1 cup of additional water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot in bowls garnished with parsley. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is an essential part of enjoying this comforting dish. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that can enhance the dining experience.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread complements the soup’s savory flavors and is perfect for dipping.
• Crusty Italian Bread: Slices of crusty Italian bread provide a great texture contrast and soak up the delicious broth.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and zest, balancing the warmth of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: Fresh mixed greens with a light vinaigrette can brighten the meal and offer a refreshing taste.

Offer Toppings

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top for added richness and flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances the freshness of the dish.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Perfecting Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup involves attention to detail in both ingredients and cooking techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your soup.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to canned or dried options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference for a customized flavor experience.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the ditalini pasta until al dente. This ensures it remains firm in the soup without becoming mushy.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup during cooking to adjust seasoning levels, ensuring each bite is delicious.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for 10–15 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

When serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, complement it with side dishes that enhance its comforting appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil adds brightness and crunch.
2. Caprese Salad: Layers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
3. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers a variety of flavors.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide an earthy contrast to the soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned simply add a healthy component to your meal.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft knots are great for soaking up any leftover broth in your bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can be easy, but a few common mistakes can ruin this delightful dish.

• Using too much salt: It’s easy to over-season, especially with broth. Start with less and adjust after tasting.
• Not browning the meat properly: Brown the ground beef well for better flavor. It helps develop depth in the soup.
• Overcooking the pasta: Follow package instructions for al dente pasta. Adding it too early can lead to mushy results.
• Skipping the aromatics: Don’t skip sautéing onions, garlic, and vegetables. This step builds the flavor base of your soup.
• Ignoring consistency adjustments: The soup may thicken as it sits. Always have extra broth or water on hand to adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Leave space in containers for expansion.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until fully warmed.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup last?

This soup can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Yes! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months when stored in freezer-safe containers.

What can I serve with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, salad, or even a side of garlic bread.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

What makes Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup unique?

Its blend of hearty beans, vegetables, and flavorful spices creates a comforting and satisfying meal that is reminiscent of restaurant-style soups.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only hearty and comforting; it also offers versatility for customization. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spices to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try!

---