A warm bowl of Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is like a hug in a dish. Picture this: savory beans mingling with tender pasta in a rich broth that whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart and soul.

I remember the first time I had this delightful concoction at Olive Garden; I was practically spooning my way through a food coma while my friends laughed at my complete lack of table manners. Now it’s a staple in my kitchen, especially during chilly evenings when I want something comforting yet simple to make.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Olive Garden-inspired pasta e fagioli soup is quick and easy to prepare
Its robust flavors will remind you of restaurant dining without the hefty bill
The vibrant colors and aromas make it an inviting centerpiece for any meal
Perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings with loved ones

I still chuckle when I think about my friends’ reactions as they indulged in my first attempt at this soup; they couldn’t believe how close it tasted to the restaurant version!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor; it adds a rich depth to the soup.
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef; it keeps your soup hearty without being greasy.
Onion: A medium onion diced finely gives a sweet base flavor as it cooks down.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and crunch; chop them small for even cooking.
Celery: Celery adds texture and aroma; use fresh stalks for optimal flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic will elevate the overall taste; avoid jarred garlic if possible.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture and vibrant color.
Canned Kidney Beans: Rinse and drain them well; they provide protein and fiber to the mix.
Canned Cannellini Beans: These creamy beans add richness; they’re essential for that authentic vibe.
Pasta (Ditalini): Use small pasta shapes like ditalini that can hold onto the broth perfectly.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
Dried Oregano & Basil: These herbs infuse your soup with classic Italian flavors; feel free to adjust per taste.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors; season gradually to balance well.
Parmesan Cheese (optional): Shredded on top before serving adds an indulgent touch that’s hard to resist.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Strongly suggest gathering all your ingredients before starting.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery until onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma.

Add Ground Beef and Garlic: Mix in ground beef until browned thoroughly. Stir in minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant but not burnt.

Liven Up with Tomatoes & Beans : Pour in crushed tomatoes along with rinsed kidney and cannellini beans. Stir well to combine all those beautiful colors.

Add Broth and Herbs**: Pour chicken broth into the pot, adding oregano and basil too. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Toss In The Pasta**: Add ditalini pasta once boiling. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is cooked al dente.

Season & Serve**: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Your cozy bowl of Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is ready! Enjoy every spoonful while reminiscing about those happy moments around the dinner table!

You Must Know

This hearty olive garden pasta e fagioli soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul
Its rich aromas and comforting texture make it a perfect dish for cozy nights
Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option that even picky eaters will love

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your vegetables and broth for a flavorful base. Simultaneously, cook the pasta in a separate pot to prevent overcooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in any beans you have on hand or toss in some spinach for added nutrients. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or crushed red pepper to kick things up a notch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove; add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, let your soup simmer longer to deepen its richness
Don’t forget to taste as you go; seasoning adjustments can elevate your dish significantly
Also, remember that adding fresh herbs at the end brightens up the entire bowl!

Sometimes I get so excited about this soup that I end up making enough to feed an army! Friends rave about it during gatherings, especially when paired with freshly baked bread.

FAQ

What type of pasta works best in olive garden pasta e fagioli soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni are ideal for this soup.

Can I make olive garden pasta e fagioli soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

How can I freeze olive garden pasta e fagioli soup?

Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers; it freezes well for up to three months.