Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

This Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this hearty soup features ground beef, beans, and pasta, making it a wholesome meal choice. Its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients make it an ideal option for cozy gatherings or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also has many appealing features.

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this delightful soup in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a robust flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a starter. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the ground beef and beans, plus vitamins from the veggies, it’s a hearty and healthy choice.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. The flavors develop even more after sitting in the fridge!

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking larger quantities; it allows for even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot; great for breaking apart meat while cooking.

Ingredients

This hearty Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is inspired by the beloved classic. Loaded with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta, it’s a simple dish perfect for cozy lunches or dinners.

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

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 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

• Parsley, dried or fresh (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

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

Step 2: Cook the Meat

Add the ground beef (or mix of beef and sausage) to the pot. Cook until browned while breaking it apart as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Once the meat is cooked through, 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: Season the Mixture

Stir in dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Add diced tomatoes along with tomato sauce and broth. Stir well to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a boil. Taste before adding salt and pepper to season according to your preference.

Step 6: Incorporate Beans

Add the drained kidney beans and continue boiling the soup.

Step 7: Cook Pasta

Once boiling actively, stir in ditalini pasta. Cook until pasta is al dente based on package directions (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 achieve your desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot with optional garnishes like 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 can elevate your meal experience. This hearty soup is not only filling but also versatile, making it a perfect option for various occasions.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted with butter and garlic, this bread complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
• Baguette Slices: Serve with a side of olive oil for dipping, enhancing the Italian theme.

As a Main Course

• Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top for an additional layer of flavor.
• With a Side Salad: A light green salad balances the richness of the soup and adds freshness.

For Meal Prep

• Store in Jars: Portion out servings in jars for easy reheating during the week.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well, making it a great option for busy nights.

Garnished Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Add chopped basil or parsley as a garnish to brighten up the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, a sprinkle adds an exciting kick.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

To achieve the best results with your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh ingredients enhance flavors and textures in your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjusting salt and pepper can make a big difference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: This prevents overcooking and ensures that your pasta remains al dente when served.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with Beans: Try different types of beans based on your taste preference for added variety.
• Add More Broth If Needed: If the soup thickens too much, adding broth rather than water keeps flavors concentrated.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

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

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a nice crunch alongside the soup.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing treat.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a burst of flavor that complements the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and cheese provide heartiness to balance out the lighter elements of the meal.
5. Antipasto Platter: A colorful assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses makes a delightful appetizer before digging into the soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection add depth and nutrition to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of.

• Using too much salt: Adding salt before tasting can make your soup overly salty. Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta for too long, it will become mushy. Follow package directions for al dente pasta.
• Skipping the brown sugar: Brown sugar balances the acidity of tomatoes. Don’t skip it or you may lose flavor depth.
• Not adding enough broth: A lack of liquid can lead to a thick soup. Ensure you add enough broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like parsley or Parmesan cheese means missing out on added flavor and presentation. Always include them for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container to prevent condensation.

Freezing Instructions

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

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Stir occasionally until hot, usually about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup that can help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I thicken my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

If your soup is too thin, let it simmer longer without the lid to reduce liquid. Alternatively, you can add more beans or use a cornstarch slurry.

Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?

While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or mini shells based on your preference.

How can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. You can also adjust spices according to your taste for different flavor profiles.

What’s the best way to serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Serve hot with crusty bread on the side. Garnishing with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese enhances both flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. This makes it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy weeknights. Try making this delicious soup today!