Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Hearty and comforting, the Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your home. This rich soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or as a satisfying lunch option. With its blend of savory ingredients and hearty beans, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian comfort food that you’ll want to enjoy time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This soup comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Robust Flavors: A combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously rich taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from beans and lean ground beef, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking large quantities while allowing enough space for stirring without spills.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, enhancing the presentation and even cooking of ingredients.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Meat and Broth

• 1 pound ground beef or 0.5 pound ground beef + 0.5 pound Italian sausage
• 4 cups beef broth or chicken broth (or 1 teaspoon bouillon per cup of water)
• 1 cup additional water (if needed)

Vegetables

• 1 large onion (diced)
• 3 stalks celery (sliced)
• 1-2 cups carrots (sliced or diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (crushed)

Seasonings and Sauces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Canned Goods and Pasta

• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) diced tomatoes
• 3 cans (8 ounces / 227 grams each) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) kidney beans, drained (light or dark)
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Garnish Options

• Parsley (dried or fresh, optional for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

Warm olive oil in a generously sized soup pot over medium-high heat. Introduce ground beef and sauté until thoroughly browned, fragmenting the meat while cooking.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Incorporate diced onion, celery, and carrots into the pot. Allow them to soften for approximately 5 minutes. Next, add crushed garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute.

Step 3: Season the Soup

Sprinkle in dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Distribute these seasonings evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and your choice of broth. Blend all ingredients thoroughly before elevating to a rolling boil. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add Beans

Fold in drained beans while maintaining a vigorous boil.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

When boiling consistently, gently stir in ditalini pasta. Simmer for about 8-10 minutes until pasta reaches perfect al dente texture.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

Monitor soup consistency throughout cooking. If it becomes too dense, supplement with up to 1 cup of water.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle into warm bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance flavor profile.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a delicious combination that enhances the soup’s robust flavors.
• Ciabatta Rolls: Soft, crusty ciabatta rolls provide a great vessel for dipping into the rich broth.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty soup.
• Mixed Greens: Tossed mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complement the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.

Topped with Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Add a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the savory flavor profile.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide vibrant flavors that dried ingredients can’t match.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and spices in small increments to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Monitor Cooking Time for Pasta: Keep an eye on the ditalini pasta, as overcooking can lead to mushiness; aim for al dente.
• Add Broth as Needed: If your soup thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

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

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs make a delightful addition for soaking up soup.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a fresh contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Caprese Salad – Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a light, refreshing side.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms filled with cream cheese and herbs provide an elegant touch alongside your soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.
6. Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a comforting side that pairs well with the soup’s rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Sautéing them for too long can lead to mushiness. Cook just until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Each broth may vary in salt content. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
• Not Cooking Pasta Separately: Adding pasta directly to the soup can absorb too much liquid. Consider cooking it separately if you want leftovers.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with parsley adds freshness and flavor. Don’t skip this step for that extra touch!
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your tomatoes and broth affects the overall taste. Opt for good-quality canned tomatoes and homemade or low-sodium broth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe:

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will still deliver delicious flavors.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can omit the meat entirely and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.

What can I serve with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

This soup pairs well with breadsticks, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

The Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or beans to suit your taste!

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

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Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

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Description

Discover the warmth and comfort of a homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, a delightful Italian dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy lunches. This flavorful soup combines tender ground beef with hearty beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a nourishing bowl that soothes the soul. With its vibrant ingredients and satisfying texture, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also adaptable to suit your personal preferences. Enjoy it alongside crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal that brings the essence of Italy right to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 3 stalks celery (sliced)
• 1–2 cups carrots (sliced or diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
• 3 cans tomato sauce (8 oz each)
• 1 can kidney beans (15 oz, drained)
• 1 can Great Northern or cannellini beans (15 oz, drained)
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and sauté until browned.
2. Incorporate diced onion, celery, and carrots; cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add crushed garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce along with the broth; bring to a rolling boil.
5. Fold in drained beans and maintain a vigorous boil.
6. Stir in ditalini pasta; simmer for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
7. Adjust consistency with water if necessary before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg