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 Make: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can have this comforting soup ready in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef, beans, and pasta, it’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest diners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preference.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure smooth cooking from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking large quantities, allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, giving you control over mixing.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

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 Sauces and Broth

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

For 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 Olive Oil

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

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef and cook until browned. Ensure it’s thoroughly cooked before proceeding.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

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

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic

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

Step 5: Mix in Seasonings

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

Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Broth

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

Step 7: Add Beans

Add kidney beans; continue boiling for a few minutes to heat through.

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 with your favorite bread!

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance the experience and make it more enjoyable. This hearty soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or French Baguette – A warm piece of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich flavors of the soup.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that complements the soup nicely.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and creamy dressing balances the hearty soup.
• Garden Salad – A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers freshness along with your meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley – Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top of the soup just before serving for added flavor and color.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan cheese can provide a savory finish that enhances the overall taste.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

To achieve the best flavors in your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips. Small adjustments can lead to a significantly improved dish.

• Use Quality Broth – Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broth to elevate the overall flavor.
• Allow Time to Simmer – Letting the soup simmer for longer allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Customize Your Vegetables – Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference; sometimes a pinch of salt or spice makes all the difference.
• Store Leftovers Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for future meals.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

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

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs make an irresistible pairing.
2. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring extra texture and nutrients to your dining experience.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms – Flavorful stuffed mushrooms add a savory touch that complements the soup’s richness.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil is light and bursting with flavor.
6. Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad with olives, cheese, and Italian dressing provides a pleasant contrast in temperature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results with your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Failing to sauté the vegetables properly can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to cook the onions, celery, and carrots until they are soft and aromatic.
• Not Browning the Meat: If you don’t brown the ground beef, your soup may lack depth of flavor. Always take the time to brown it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring Consistency: Adding too much broth or water can make your soup too thin. Adjust the liquid slowly to find your desired thickness.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta for too long will result in mushy noodles. Aim for al dente texture by following package instructions carefully.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season can leave your soup flat. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish. Heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Transfer soup to a pot and heat over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.

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

The soup lasts for about 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What type of pasta is best for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Ditalini pasta is traditionally used for this recipe due to its small size and ability to soak up flavors.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your soup by adding extra vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. Its versatility allows for countless variations, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences. Enjoy a nourishing bowl that’s perfect any day of the week!