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. It’s quick to prepare and easy to customize, making it ideal for cozy family dinners 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

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup by adding your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef, beans, and pasta, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this flavorful dish.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup requires some essential tools to make cooking easier. Gather these items before you start for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This is crucial for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend well.
• Wooden spoon: A sturdy wooden spoon is perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
• Measuring cups: Precise measurements ensure the best flavor balance in your soup.
• Chef’s knife: A good-quality knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.

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Ingredients

For the 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 Soup

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

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 to the pot and cook until browned. Break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

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

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic

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

Step 5: Season

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

Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Broth

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

Step 7: Include Beans

Add kidney beans; continue boiling for about 5 minutes to meld flavors together.

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta. Cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), checking periodically.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

If needed, adjust the consistency with water. Serve hot for best flavor.

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some tasty suggestions to enhance your soup presentation and enjoyment.

Pairing with Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Serve warm, sliced crusty bread for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery sticks complement the flavors and add a satisfying crunch.

Adding Freshness

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the hearty soup.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a refreshing touch.

Garnishing Options

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Add a sprinkle of cheese on top for richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil can brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup ensures it tastes delightful every time. Consider these helpful tips for an excellent outcome.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality broth enhance flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; add more spices if you prefer a bolder flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a firmer texture, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Let It Sit: Allow the soup to rest for 10 minutes after cooking; this helps the flavors meld together.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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 delicious options that complement the soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil, garlic, and parmesan before roasting them until tender.
2. Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan adds crunch and creaminess.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with rice, beans, and spices, these peppers make for a flavorful addition.
4. Cheesy Herb Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with herbs and cheese are perfect for soaking up the soup.
5. Zucchini Fritters: Lightly fried zucchini patties provide a crispy texture alongside the soup’s warmth.
6. Baked Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries offer a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using the wrong type of meat: Opt for ground beef or turkey instead of sausage for a healthier option. This keeps the dish lean while maintaining flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Ditalini pasta should be cooked al dente. If overcooked, it can become mushy in the soup. Follow package instructions closely for best results.
• Skipping aromatics: Ignoring garlic and onions can lead to a bland soup. Be sure to sauté these ingredients at the beginning to enhance the overall flavor.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup before serving! You may need to add salt, pepper, or herbs to achieve the desired flavor profile.
• Neglecting vegetable additions: Don’t hesitate to add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more nutrition. This customization can elevate your soup’s taste and health benefits.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers for best results.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup that might help clarify any doubts you have about this delicious recipe.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes! Using vegetable broth will create a vegetarian version of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup without sacrificing flavor.

How can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can customize it by adding more vegetables such as spinach or zucchini, or even using different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans.

Is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup healthy?

This soup is quite nutritious as it incorporates lean meat, beans, and plenty of vegetables. It’s a hearty meal that’s also filling.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down before placing it in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a versatile and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Its hearty ingredients make it satisfying while allowing room for customization based on your preferences. Whether you choose to add extra vegetables or adjust the seasonings, this recipe promises warmth and flavor in every bowl. Give it a try today!