Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This comforting soup is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in. It features tender ditalini pasta, hearty beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings, all simmered in a rich broth that brings it all together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and fiber from beans, it’s a satisfying dish that keeps you full.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: This soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its comforting flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering soups evenly due to its heavy base.
• Knife: A good knife ensures precise cuts of vegetables, enhancing both presentation and cooking times.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 1/2 pounds Ground Beef
• 2 teaspoons All Purpose Seasoning (divided)
• 1 Onion (Large, diced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 3 Carrots (diced)
• 3 stalks Celery (diced)

For Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper

For Beans and Broth

• 15 ounces Cannelini Beans
• 15 ounces Kidney Beans
• 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes
• 4 cups Chicken Broth

For Finishing Touches

• 1/4 teaspoon Salt and Pepper
• 1 pound Ditalini Pasta (cooked)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, season the ground beef with 1 teaspoon of all-purpose seasoning. Cook until it’s browned completely. Once done, remove from pot and drain excess fat, leaving about one tablespoon in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sprinkle with the remaining seasoning blend. Cook these vegetables for about 5-8 minutes or until they soften.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and bay leaf. Sauté everything together for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned ground beef back into the pot. Add diced tomatoes (with their liquid), both types of beans, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Season to Taste

After simmering, taste your soup. If necessary, add more salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve

In individual serving bowls, add one cup of cooked ditalini pasta then ladle over with hot soup. Optionally top with grated parmesan cheese before serving for extra flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting nature. You can personalize each bowl to make it even more delightful for your guests or family.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil can brighten up the soup, adding a fresh aroma and flavor.

Include Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of rustic bread or garlic bread for dipping. This combination is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Provide grated Parmesan or a dairy-free alternative on the side. This addition adds creaminess and enhances the overall taste of the soup.

Serve with a Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the hearty soup and balances the meal nicely.

Pair with Crackers

• Crunchy crackers can add texture to your soup experience. They are easy to grab and enjoy alongside each spoonful.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup involves attention to detail in both flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the soup’s flavor profile immensely.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will deepen the flavors. Just be sure not to overcook the pasta.
• Cook Pasta Separately: If preparing in advance, cook ditalini separately and add it when serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Store Properly: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring freshness.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat to prevent overcooking and maintain texture.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, garlic bread is an ideal companion for dipping into the warm broth.

2. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the soup.

3. Caprese Salad
   With fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this salad brings brightness that complements the hearty flavors of the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a savory addition that pairs well with any Italian dish.

5. Cheesy Breadsticks
   Soft breadsticks topped with cheese are perfect for dunking into your flavorful soup.

6. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, marinated veggies, and cheeses makes for an excellent starter before diving into your main bowl of soup.

7. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad adds protein and nutrients while keeping things light and healthy alongside your hearty meal.

8. Stuffed Peppers
   Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and herbs offer a filling side that complements Italian flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, there are some common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch for.

• Using Too Much Salt: Over-seasoning can overpower the flavors. Start with less salt and adjust at the end to ensure a balanced taste.
• Neglecting to Drain Beans: Not draining canned beans can dilute your broth. Always rinse and drain beans before adding them to the soup.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor greatly. Don’t skip fresh garlic or Italian seasoning; they add depth to your soup.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long makes them mushy. Sauté just until tender for a better texture.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to taste your soup before serving might lead to unbalanced flavors. Adjust seasonings as needed before serving for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, in 1-minute intervals, stirring until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup that may help enhance your cooking experience.

What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian-inspired soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will still provide delicious flavor in your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with more beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor in your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup.

How long does it take to make this soup?

The total time for making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is around 45 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a wonderful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients according to your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its comforting qualities!