Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and flavorful bean and pasta soup that you can easily make at home. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even meal prep for the week. Packed with nutritious ingredients, it warms you from the inside out while offering a delightful blend of flavors. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, this recipe can be ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich taste that satisfies.
• Versatile Meal: Customize with different beans or veggies to make it your own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber and nutrients, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike, making it great for dinner parties or casual meals.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli effectively, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld together.
• Cutting board & knife: Necessary for dicing vegetables quickly and safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 mild sausages (casings removed) – Substitute with chicken sausage if desired.
• 4 cups broth
• 15 oz diced tomatoes
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 2 TBSP ketchup

For the Vegetables

• 1 carrot (julienned)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Beans & Pasta

• 1/3 cup Ditalini pasta
• 1/2 can red kidney beans
• 1/2 can white beans

For Seasoning

• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp celery seed
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
2. Stir in the mild sausages until browned.
3. Mix in the minced garlic and julienned carrot, sautéing until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Broth and Tomatoes

1. Pour in the broth along with the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and ketchup.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Add Beans and Pasta

1. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Once boiling, add Ditalini pasta, red kidney beans, white beans, dried basil, celery seed, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

1. Lower heat to a simmer.
2. Cook for about 20 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls and enjoy your delicious Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a warm and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread – Pair this soup with crispy garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
• Crusty Baguette – Serve with slices of crusty baguette, perfect for dipping into the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added layer of flavor.
• Mozzarella – Melt some mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Garden Salad – A light garden salad with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup.

As a Main Dish

• Hearty Meal – Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli as a main course, allowing it to stand alone as a filling meal.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

To create the best Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli at home, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Broth – Choose a flavorful broth as it forms the base of your soup, enhancing overall taste.
• Customize Your Beans – Feel free to mix different beans for added texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta – Add Ditalini pasta towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for the best flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Complement your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli with these tasty side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness.
2. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables make a hearty companion.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide a healthy side.
4. Polenta Fries – Crispy polenta fries are a fun twist that pairs well with the soup.
5. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds vibrant colors and flavors.
6. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes elevate any meal; add garlic for extra zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid overcooking the pasta: If you cook the Ditalini pasta too long, it can become mushy and lose its texture. Cook it just until al dente for the best results.
• Don’t skip the broth: Using water instead of broth can lead to a bland soup. Always use a good quality broth for rich flavor in your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli.
• Forgetting to season properly: Not adding enough salt and pepper can dull the flavors. Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning to ensure a balanced taste.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Relying solely on canned items might make your soup taste flat. Incorporate fresh vegetables for added depth and brightness.
• Skipping the herbs: Omitting dried basil or celery seed will lessen the soup’s aroma and flavor complexity. Always include these herbs to enhance your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: This will keep your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags: This helps avoid freezer burn and allows for easy storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli?
Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian bean and pasta soup that combines flavorful broth with vegetables and beans for a comforting dish.

Can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli?
Yes! You can add different vegetables or proteins like chicken or turkey to suit your taste preferences while maintaining its classic flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit any meat and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You can increase the amount of beans for extra protein.

Is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, replace Ditalini pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative available at most grocery stores.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. Just store it properly following the instructions above.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a versatile recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it satisfying while allowing room for personal touches. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with new additions, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table!