Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

This Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for cozy family dinners or a hearty lunch, this soup is loaded with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta. Its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients make it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on chilly nights or at gatherings with friends, this classic recipe will surely impress.

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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
• For the Liquids
• For the Beans and Pasta
• For Garnish
• How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Brown the Meat
• Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 4: Add Spices
• Step 5: Incorporate Liquids
• Step 6: Mix in Beans
• Step 7: Cook the Pasta
• Step 8: Adjust Consistency
• Step 9: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Top with Cheese
• Garnish with Herbs
• How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• 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 thicken Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?
• Can I add more vegetables to my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that warms you up.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Flavorful Blend of Ingredients: The combination of spices, vegetables, and meats delivers a taste that rivals Olive Garden’s original.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time; it reheats beautifully for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking all the ingredients together evenly and allows plenty of room for boiling.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

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 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 the 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.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

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

Step 3: Sauté 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: Add Spices

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

Step 5: Incorporate Liquids

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil and taste; season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Mix in Beans

Add the drained beans into the pot. Allow everything to continue boiling together.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling vigorously, stir in the ditalini pasta. Cook until pasta is al dente according to package directions (usually around 8-10 minutes).

Step 8: Adjust Consistency

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

Step 9: Serve Hot

Serve hot from the pot! Garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of 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 pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make it even more satisfying.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: A perfect companion, garlic bread adds a crunchy contrast to the warm soup.
• French Baguette: Slice it up for dipping into the soup’s rich broth.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the flavors of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing note.

Top with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over each bowl for added richness.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella adds a cheesy gooeyness that enhances each bite.

Garnish with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only looks beautiful but also adds freshness.
• Basil: Chopped fresh basil can elevate the Italian flavors in the dish.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

To achieve the perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your cooking process and flavor profile.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide more flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; this helps avoid over-seasoning your soup.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For best texture, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer develops deeper flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
• Experiment with Beans: Try different types of beans like black beans for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
• Make It Ahead of Time: Soups often taste better the next day, as flavors meld together overnight.

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Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
2. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds variety and flavor.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Peppers filled with rice, cheese, and herbs complement the soup nicely while adding heartiness.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and garlic is a delightful appetizer that pairs well with any soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide a nutritious side that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s texture.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter are fun to dunk in your warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Using low-quality meat: Cheap or fatty ground beef can lead to an unappealing taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality ground beef or a mix with Italian sausage for better flavor.
• Neglecting the seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper during cooking can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long will result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta texture.
• Not using enough broth: Insufficient broth can leave your soup thick and dry. Always add enough liquid to achieve your desired consistency.
• Skipping the vegetables: Omitting vegetables diminishes the soup’s nutrition and flavor. Include a variety of veggies for a hearty, well-rounded dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• 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 Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian-American soup made with ground beef, beans, fresh vegetables, and pasta in a rich broth.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I thicken Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

To thicken your soup, let it simmer longer or mash some of the beans into the broth for added creaminess.

How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?

Properly stored, it lasts about 5 days in the refrigerator. Ensure it’s in an airtight container.

Can I add more vegetables to my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but versatile as well. You can customize it with different meats or vegetables according to your taste. Enjoy this classic dish on a chilly day or serve it as a satisfying meal any time!

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