Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

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 Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Flavorful Comfort: The rich combination of beef, beans, and vegetables creates a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping meat for plant-based options.
• Nutrient-Packed: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only tasty but also nourishing.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows all ingredients to mix well and cook evenly without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while providing great control.
• Cutting board: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and preparing your ingredients before cooking.

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
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce

For the Broth & Beans

• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Heat Oil

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

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in onions, celery, and carrots; cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Add crushed garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Mix in Spices

Mix in dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 6: Pour in Tomatoes & Broth

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

Step 7: Add Beans

Add kidney beans to the boiling mixture. Continue boiling for another few minutes.

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).

Step 9: Adjust Consistency & Serve

If needed, adjust consistency with water. Serve hot with your choice of sides!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a versatile dish that can be presented in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this comforting soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve hot with slices of crusty bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and a touch of creaminess.

Accompanied by Fresh Salad

• Pair the soup with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing complement to the hearty soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and interactive dining experience.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness.

With Crackers or Breadsticks

• Offer a side of crunchy crackers or warm breadsticks for added texture and enjoyment.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

To achieve the best version of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion will help enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in taste. Opt for fresh over canned when possible.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference before serving.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For better texture, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have time. This enhances flavors as all ingredients meld together beautifully.
• Add Extra Veggies: Customize your soup by incorporating additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more nutrition and flavor.
• Use Leftovers Creatively: If you have any leftover soup, try using it as a sauce over cooked pasta for another meal option!

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

When enjoying Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, side dishes can complement its rich flavors perfectly. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside, soft inside—this classic side is perfect for scooping up every last drop of soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing pairs well with the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal while being simple to prepare.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese can be enjoyed alongside the soup for a delightful twist.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or quinoa provide an excellent protein-packed side that complements the flavors in the soup.
7. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes fried until golden brown create a unique addition that pairs well with soups.
8. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can serve as a low-carb alternative that complements the heartiness of the fagioli soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold choice of meat: Using poor-quality ground beef can affect the flavor. Opt for fresh, lean ground beef for the best results.
• Bold seasoning errors: Forgetting or under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste as you cook and adjust spices according to your preference.
• Bold overcooking pasta: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Always wait until the soup is almost done before adding ditalini pasta.
• Bold ignoring vegetable size: Cutting vegetables unevenly can result in inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even tenderness.
• Bold neglecting broth quality: Using low-quality broth may result in a lack of depth in flavor. Choose a good-quality beef or chicken broth for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup that might help you while cooking.

How do I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

You can replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preferences.

How long does Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup last?

When stored properly, this soup lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to three months when frozen.

What kind of beans should I use in my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Kidney beans and Great Northern or cannellini beans are great choices that provide texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that’s both hearty and versatile. Its rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to enjoy every warm bowl!

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Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, a classic Italian dish that brings comfort and nourishment to your table. This delightful soup combines ground beef, beans, and ditalini pasta, all simmered with aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. The result is a rich, savory broth that is both satisfying and customizable. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, you can easily adapt this recipe by incorporating your favorite veggies or swapping out the meat for plant-based options. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete 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 cup ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef; cook until browned while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
3. Stir in onions, celery, and carrots; cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Add crushed garlic; cook for an additional 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 and boil for another few minutes.
8. Stir in ditalini pasta; cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
9. Adjust consistency with water if needed; serve hot with desired sides.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 50mg