Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, a delightful Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup features ground beef, beans, and pasta, all simmered with aromatic vegetables and spices. It’s quick to prepare and easy to customize, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. Enjoy this nourishing bowl with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that warms both the heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of beef, beans, and fresh vegetables creates a rich taste that satisfies your hunger.
• Versatile: Customize your soup by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or make it vegetarian by substituting meat with lentils.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This soup is great for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep—enjoy it anytime!
• Comforting and Nourishing: Packed with nutrients, Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup not only fills you up but also warms your soul.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items to have on hand while making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for holding all the ingredients while allowing them to simmer together harmoniously.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching the pot surface while ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

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

For the Sauce

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce

For the Broth and Beans

• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

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: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Stir occasionally to break up any clumps.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in onions, celery, and carrots; cook for about 5 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic

Add crushed garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Mix in Seasonings

Mix in dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes to enhance flavor.

Step 6: Combine Sauces

Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth; bring to a boil over high heat.

Step 7: Add Beans

Add kidney beans; continue boiling for about 5 minutes.

Step 8: Cook the Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

If needed, adjust consistency with water; serve hot in bowls. Enjoy your delicious 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 a few simple accompaniments. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up the flavors.

Add a Side Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, adding freshness to your meal.

Top with Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread not only adds crunch but also enhances the Italian feel of this hearty dish.

Offer Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, provide red pepper flakes on the side so people can customize their soup to their liking.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Perfecting Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup involves attention to detail and a few cooking tips. These will help you achieve the best results every time you make it.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables bring vibrant flavors that enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your soup as it cooks; adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
• Cook pasta separately: If you want your pasta to remain firm, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a while helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors get better as they sit!

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

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

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad topped with crisp romaine, croutons, and Parmesan dressing adds crunch and flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Refreshing slices of mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light contrast to the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice offer a hearty complement that’s still healthy.
5. Bruschetta: Tasty bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an excellent appetizer before diving into your soup.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots are perfect for mopping up every last drop of delicious soup!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can be a simple and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Bold ingredients: Forgetting to measure your ingredients accurately can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always use measuring cups or a kitchen scale for precision.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking the pasta will result in a mushy texture. Add the ditalini pasta towards the end of cooking and check for doneness frequently.
• Bold seasoning: Skipping seasonings can make your soup bland. Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste preferences; taste as you go!
• Bold broth choice: Using low-quality broth may ruin the flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought beef or chicken broth for the best results.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Not considering alternatives for meat can limit your options. Feel free to substitute with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version without losing taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl; cover loosely and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup that might help clarify any doubts.

How can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. For a vegetarian option, swap out meat for lentils or mushrooms.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly in the fridge.

What should I serve with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Pair this soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from beans and ground beef while being low in calories, making it a nutritious choice.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. With easy customization options and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this soup will surely satisfy everyone at the table. Give it a try!