Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Introduction

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s a hearty Italian-American soup that brings together the perfect combination of tender pasta, wholesome beans, and savory vegetables, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. The best part is that this version, inspired by the beloved Olive Garden recipe, offers a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to make at home. It’s the kind of dish that’s not only filling but also packed with flavor, making it the perfect choice for dinner when you want something hearty and nourishing.

The first time I made Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, I was amazed by how simple the ingredients were, yet the resulting soup tasted like it had been simmering all day. As the vegetables softened and the broth absorbed all the spices, the kitchen filled with the most inviting aroma, making it impossible to wait for dinner. Each spoonful was a balance of textures—the soft pasta, tender beans, and the depth of flavor from the broth, making it a truly satisfying meal.

What I love most about this soup is its versatility. It can easily be made ahead of time and stored for later, making it an ideal dish for meal prep or a busy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works perfectly for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. With just the right amount of spices and textures, Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is sure to become a regular favorite on your dinner table.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family meals
• Cozy gatherings
• Cold weather comfort food
• Soup lovers

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Here’s why Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with pasta, beans, and vegetables, this soup is not only flavorful but also incredibly filling, making it perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Comforting and Cozy: The warm, savory broth combined with the tender pasta and beans will make you feel cozy and content—perfect for chilly nights.
• Made with Simple Ingredients: With basic pantry ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and pasta, this recipe is simple to prepare and doesn’t require a lot of fuss.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes, whether you want to add more vegetables, change up the beans, or even add meat.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days after making it.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
• 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni work well)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef or Turkey: This adds richness and protein to the soup, but you can use ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions bring sweetness and earthiness to the soup, complementing the beans and broth.
• Diced Tomatoes: These add depth and acidity to the soup, balancing the richness of the meat and beans.
• Beans: Kidney beans and white beans provide fiber, protein, and a satisfying texture that makes this soup filling.
• Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, and garlic provide a fragrant, savory base for the soup, enhancing all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli:

Prepare the Meat and Vegetables:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, remove any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Make the Soup Base:

3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, along with their juices, and the beef broth (or vegetable broth if you’re making a vegetarian version). Bring to a simmer.
4. Season the Soup: Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.

Cook the Pasta and Beans:

5. Add the Beans: Stir in the kidney beans and white beans. Bring the soup back to a simmer.
6. Add the Pasta: Once the soup is simmering, add the pasta. Cook the soup for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

Finish and Serve:

7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs, if desired.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a versatile soup that can be served in several delightful ways:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or Italian bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Topped with Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds extra richness and flavor.
• As a Starter: Serve as a hearty first course before a main meal for a comforting start to your dinner.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette for a light and refreshing side.
• In Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a more personal touch when hosting guests.

Additional Tips for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Here are some tips to ensure your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli turns out perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil and oregano on hand, feel free to use them in place of the dried herbs for even more flavor.
• Add More Vegetables: You can add more vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to make the soup even heartier and more nutritious.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium beef or vegetable broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. If you let it cook too long, it may become mushy. Aim for al dente texture.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Leftover Pasta e Fagioli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Recipe Variations for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Here are 10 variations you can try for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli:

• Vegetarian Pasta e Fagioli: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Pasta e Fagioli: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli: Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a more flavorful and aromatic soup.
• Pasta e Fagioli with Spinach: Stir in some fresh spinach at the end for added color and nutrition.
• Pasta e Fagioli with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta to make this soup gluten-free.
• Pasta e Fagioli with Kale: For a more rustic version, add chopped kale in place of spinach.
• Pasta e Fagioli with Sweet Potatoes: Add diced sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness and extra heartiness.
• Creamy Pasta e Fagioli: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy, rich version of the soup.
• Pasta e Fagioli with Chicken: Swap the ground beef for cooked chicken breast for a leaner option.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Pasta e Fagioli can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the pasta may become softer once thawed. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Storage: Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to help loosen the soup.

Special Equipment for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli easier:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for making soups, as it distributes heat evenly.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the soup without scratching your pot.
• Garlic Press: A garlic press helps quickly mince garlic for a more intense flavor.
• Soup Ladle: A long ladle is useful for serving the soup without making a mess.
• Grater: A fine grater is needed for grating Parmesan cheese for topping the soup.

FAQ Section for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   Yes, simply omit the ground meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, Pasta e Fagioli freezes well, but the pasta may become softer when thawed.
3. Can I use different beans?
   Absolutely! You can swap kidney beans and white beans for other varieties, such as pinto or black beans.
4. Can I use other types of pasta?
   Yes, you can use any small pasta you prefer, like elbow macaroni, orzo, or mini shells.
5. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.

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Conclusion

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a warm, comforting soup that brings the flavors of Italy to your table in no time. With its rich broth, hearty beans, and tender pasta, this soup is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy meal on a chilly day. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or enjoying a solo meal, this Pasta e Fagioli is sure to become a favorite in your home.

The combination of savory ingredients like ground beef, sausage, and vegetables, along with the beans and pasta, creates a soul-satisfying dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. The seasonings bring everything together, making each spoonful a delicious comfort. It’s a meal that will not only fill your stomach but also bring a smile to your face.

I can’t wait to see how your Pasta e Fagioli turns out! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you bring this delicious soup to life! Don’t forget to leave a comment and share how you made it your own. Happy cooking!