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 a robust blend of ground beef, beans, and pasta, all simmered to perfection with aromatic vegetables and spices. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. Enjoy this nourishing bowl of goodness 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 Make: With straightforward steps, this soup can be prepared in under an hour.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is satisfying enough to serve as a main dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Provides enough space for all ingredients to cook evenly without spilling.
• Cutting board: Protects your counters while making it easy to chop vegetables safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts, making prep work quicker and easier.

this recipe

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 Liquid Components

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained
• 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.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef and cook until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 4: Add Garlic

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

Step 5: Season the Mixture

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

Step 6: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

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

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).

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

Adjust consistency with water if needed; serve hot.

Enjoy this deliciously warm bowl of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that can enhance your meal. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, ensuring each bowl offers something special.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh basil or parsley on top adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both the presentation and flavor of the dish.

Alongside a Salad

• A light, crisp salad complements the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing contrast.

Shredded Cheese

• Adding a handful of shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, melts beautifully into the hot soup, creating a creamy texture that elevates each bite.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your soup in an edible bread bowl. This not only looks impressive but also provides additional carbs to satisfy hunger.

With Extra Veggies

• Consider serving extra sautéed vegetables on the side for those who want to boost their fiber intake while enjoying the hearty flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

To achieve the best version of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, follow these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt or spices according to your preference.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together more deeply for an even richer taste.
• Add More Beans: For extra protein and fiber, consider adding more beans or legumes to enhance the nutritional value.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for varied flavor profiles.
• Store Properly: To keep leftovers fresh, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight!

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements any Italian meal. Toast slices with butter and garlic for added flavor.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing creates a refreshing balance to the hearty soup.

3. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a nutritious side that adds variety.

4. Caprese Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a delicious bite-sized treat.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide an earthy taste that pairs wonderfully with pasta fagioli.

6. Herbed Quinoa
   Light yet filling, herbed quinoa adds a nutty flavor and works well alongside this savory soup.

7. Antipasto Platter
   Featuring olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables brings diversity to your table while enhancing Italian flair.

8. Polenta Fries
   Crispy polenta fries are perfect for dipping into your soup while adding unique texture!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté the vegetables properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Always cook your onions, celery, and carrots until they’re soft before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta too long can turn it mushy. Aim for al dente by checking the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time.
• Not seasoning adequately: A bland soup can be disappointing. Taste your soup while it simmers and adjust seasoning as needed; don’t hesitate to add more herbs or spices.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component that adds depth. Choose a quality beef or chicken broth, or make your own for the best flavor.
• Ignoring customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe limits flavor variety. Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

How do I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can add extra vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that satisfies.

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

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, it makes for a perfect family meal any night of the week. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with your favorite vegetables!

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Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, an Italian-inspired dish that brings comfort to any meal. This nourishing soup combines tender ground beef, protein-rich beans, and hearty pasta, simmered alongside aromatic vegetables for a delightful experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is quick to prepare and easily customizable to suit your taste. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal that warms both body and soul.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and brown until cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break apart the meat.
3. Stir in onions, celery, and carrots; cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Add crushed garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Mix in dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes.
6. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth; bring to a boil.
7. Add kidney beans; continue boiling for about 5 minutes.
8. Stir in ditalini pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
9. Adjust consistency with water if needed; serve hot.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added nutrition and flavor variation, consider adding vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers during the sautéing step. Adjust seasonings based on your personal preference before serving.