Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Recreate the comforting flavors of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli at home with this enhanced recipe. This hearty soup features a rich, layered flavor profile, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender beans, making it a satisfying and customizable meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs, vegetables, and broth creates a deeply satisfying taste experience.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the vegetables or add your favorite beans to make this soup uniquely yours.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re simply craving comfort food, this soup fits the bill.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For Protein (optional)

• ½ pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)

For Flavor Enhancements

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 6 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup ditalini pasta
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

For Garnish and Serving

• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• Olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
• Crusty bread, for serving

How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic along with oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Meat

If using ground beef or Italian sausage, add it now. Cook until browned while draining off any excess grease.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste into the pot. Stir well and cook for another minute.

Step 6: Add Broth

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Step 7: Mix in Beans

Stir in both kidney beans and cannellini beans.

Step 8: Simmer

Reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour for deeper flavors.

Step 9: Cook Pasta

Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

Step 10: Blend (Optional)

For a creamier texture, remove about 1 cup of soup and blend until smooth. Return it to the pot and stir well.

Step 11: Season

Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 12: Serve

Ladle into bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving your Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance the meal experience. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments that complement its flavors and textures.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up every delicious drop.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor and vibrant color.

Serve with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy texture to each bite.

Offer Extra Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serving red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.

Include a Side of Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is another great option, providing a savory element that pairs wonderfully with the soup’s heartiness.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To elevate your Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best flavor and texture.

• Use homemade broth: If possible, make your own chicken broth for richer flavor.
• Add more vegetables: Incorporate zucchini or spinach for added nutrients and texture.
• Control pasta cooking time: Cook the ditalini just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a silky consistency without adding cream.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for an hour before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli enriches the dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   This classic choice offers buttery, garlicky goodness that complements the soup perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad
   A Caesar salad brings crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing to lighten up your meal.

3. Caprese Skewers
   These skewers combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a fresh touch.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and an earthy element that pairs nicely with the flavors of the soup.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   These can be filled with rice, beans, and spices for a satisfying accompaniment that’s both colorful and nutritious.

6. Focaccia Bread
   Soft focaccia topped with herbs makes for an excellent dipper alongside your hearty soup.

7. Antipasto Platter
   A platter featuring olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers diverse flavors that enhance your meal.

8. Mixed Greens Salad
   A light mixed greens salad provides freshness, and you can add nuts or seeds for a satisfying crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can be simple, but small mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using low-quality broth: Always opt for a good-quality chicken broth. This will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
• Skipping the sauté step: Neglecting to sauté the vegetables may lead to a bland taste. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and depth.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook the ditalini pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy when added to soup.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed; this final touch is crucial for flavor balance.
• Not blending for creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup. This adds richness without heavy cream.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about making Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I customize my Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or substitute different beans based on your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What other herbs can I use in this recipe?

You can experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this hearty soup delivers on taste and satisfaction. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it to suit your palate!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Recreate the comforting flavors of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli in your own kitchen with this delightful recipe. This hearty soup is brimming with rich, layered flavors from fresh vegetables, tender beans, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. With its customizable ingredients, you can easily tailor it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup ditalini pasta
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (5–7 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute.
4. If using ground beef or turkey, add now and cook until browned.
5. Mix in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Add kidney beans and cannellini beans; reduce heat and simmer covered for at least 30 minutes.
8. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente; stir into soup.
9. For creaminess, blend part of the soup if desired before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 400g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 30mg