Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a beloved classic from the popular Italian-American restaurant chain. This hearty soup is a well-balanced combination of savory ground beef, tender beans, crisp vegetables, and al dente pasta simmered in a rich, herb-infused tomato broth. The name “Pasta e Fagioli” literally means “pasta and beans” in Italian, and while this dish originated as a humble peasant meal, it’s now a comforting staple in many kitchens.

This copycat version offers the same warm, robust flavor profile as the restaurant original. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch or a satisfying dinner option, this soup delivers both nutrition and nostalgia in every spoonful.

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Why This Recipe Works

• One-pot convenience with minimal cleanup
• Packed with protein and fiber from beef and beans
• Versatile—easy to adapt for different diets
• Kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and budget-friendly
• Deep, savory flavor with pantry staple ingredients

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before starting the cooking process, organizing your workspace and gathering your tools can streamline the experience. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Ladle for serving
• Cheese grater (for optional Parmesan topping)

Why Each Tool Matters

The large soup pot allows for even cooking of ingredients and space to simmer the full batch. A sharp knife and sturdy cutting board ensure quick and safe vegetable prep. Measuring tools help maintain flavor balance. A ladle allows for clean and easy serving, while the cheese grater adds a finishing touch if using fresh Parmesan.

Preparation Tips

• Dice vegetables uniformly for even texture
• Use lean ground beef or a blend of beef and sausage for added flavor
• Cook pasta separately if planning to freeze portions
• Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking
• Taste and adjust seasonings throughout for the best flavor

Ingredients

Protein and Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (or ½ pound beef and ½ pound Italian sausage)

Vegetables

• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1–2 cups carrots, diced or sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed

Seasonings and Herbs

• 1½ teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tomato Base

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce

Broth and Liquid

• 4 cups beef or chicken broth (or 1 tsp bouillon per cup of water)
• 1 cup water (optional, if soup thickens too much)

Beans

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini or Great Northern beans, drained

Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Optional Garnish

• Fresh or dried parsley
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef (or beef and sausage mixture). Cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the crushed garlic and cook for 1 additional minute, just until fragrant.
5. Stir in the dried basil, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Mix well.
6. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Once boiling, add the drained kidney and cannellini beans.
9. Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook uncovered until the pasta is al dente, typically 8–10 minutes.
10. If the soup becomes too thick, stir in up to 1 cup of water to loosen the consistency.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
12. Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired.

This simple, flavorful Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is now ready to enjoy. The combination of savory broth, seasoned beef, and hearty vegetables creates a well-rounded and satisfying dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Serving Suggestions

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a complete meal on its own, but a few simple additions can take it to the next level. The soup’s hearty combination of ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta means it pairs beautifully with lighter, crunchy, or creamy sides that add contrast in flavor and texture.

For an authentic Italian-inspired meal, serve this soup with warm, crusty bread and a fresh green salad. For something more indulgent, offer a side of cheesy breadsticks or mozzarella sticks. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these suggestions will enhance the dining experience.

How to Serve It

• Serve hot in shallow soup bowls or deep plates for easy scooping.
• Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving to enhance the savory flavor.
• Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• If desired, offer crushed red pepper flakes on the side for those who prefer a spicier bowl.
• Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, for a restaurant-style experience at home.

This soup also works well as a starter course for Italian dinners or as a hearty lunch option throughout the week.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite being a relatively simple dish, Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can fall flat if a few common missteps occur. Paying attention to these areas can ensure a rich, flavorful soup every time.

1. Overcooking the Pasta

Adding the pasta too early in the process or cooking it beyond al dente can result in a mushy texture, especially if leftovers are stored for the next day. Always add the pasta once the broth is simmering and monitor the time carefully.

2. Using Low-Quality Broth

Since broth forms the soup’s base, using low-quality or flavorless broth will lead to a bland result. Opt for a rich beef or chicken broth, or boost store-bought broth with bouillon and extra herbs for added depth.

3. Forgetting to Drain the Beans

Canned beans often come packed in starchy liquid, which can muddy the soup’s flavor. Be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to maintain a clean and balanced taste.

4. Not Browning the Meat Properly

Don’t rush the browning step. Properly browned ground beef develops a caramelized layer that adds complexity to the overall flavor. Cook the meat thoroughly and scrape up any browned bits from the pot when deglazing with broth.

5. Underseasoning the Soup

This soup needs sufficient seasoning to balance the tomatoes and beans. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as it simmers. A small pinch of sugar can also reduce acidity from the tomatoes.

6. Cooking on Too High Heat

Simmering too aggressively can break down the vegetables or beans. A steady, gentle simmer is best for melding flavors and preserving texture.

Side Dish Recommendations

While Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is satisfying on its own, pairing it with a well-chosen side dish can round out the meal and offer a more complete dining experience. Here are eight options that complement the flavors and textures of the soup.

1. Garlic Breadsticks

A classic side for any Italian-inspired meal, garlic breadsticks are soft, buttery, and perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. Make them from scratch or serve store-bought versions warmed in the oven.

2. Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and Parmesan in Caesar salad offer a fresh contrast to the warmth and depth of the soup. Add homemade croutons for extra crunch.

3. Caprese Salad

Light and refreshing, Caprese salad with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze complements the richness of the soup without overwhelming it.

4. Bruschetta

Toasted slices of baguette topped with a garlic tomato mixture bring brightness and a bit of crunch to balance the heartiness of the soup.

5. Mozzarella Sticks

For a more indulgent option, crispy mozzarella sticks with a marinara dipping sauce can be a fun and cheesy side that kids and adults alike enjoy.

6. Roasted Asparagus

Simple yet flavorful, roasted asparagus with olive oil and sea salt offers a light and nutritious side that doesn’t compete with the soup’s bold flavors.

7. Antipasto Platter

A small platter with olives, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and cured meats adds variety and brings a touch of elegance to the meal.

8. Stuffed Mushrooms

Savory and bite-sized, stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs make a perfect complement to the soup, especially for entertaining.

These side dishes work beautifully with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, offering options that suit both casual weeknight dinners and more formal gatherings. Choose one or mix and match a few to create a satisfying Italian-inspired menu.

Expert Recipe Tips

Creating the perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup depends on attention to detail and a few key choices. These expert tips will help elevate your soup from good to exceptional, while also offering options for dietary preferences and convenience.

Choose Quality Ingredients

Start with fresh vegetables, high-quality canned tomatoes, and flavorful broth. If possible, use a low-sodium broth and adjust the salt as you go. High-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.

Add a Parmesan Rind While Simmering

If you have a Parmesan rind on hand, toss it into the soup during the simmering stage. It melts slightly, infusing the broth with deep, umami flavor. Remove it before serving.

Swap Proteins if Needed

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles can substitute for ground beef. For extra flavor, a combination of Italian sausage and beef brings the closest taste to the Olive Garden original.

Cook Pasta Separately for Leftovers

If you plan to store leftovers or freeze the soup, cook the ditalini pasta separately and add it only to each serving. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much broth and turning mushy during storage.

Make It Vegetarian

To make this soup vegetarian, simply skip the meat and use a flavorful vegetable broth. You can also increase the quantity of beans or add vegetables like zucchini or kale for added substance.

Adjust Spice Levels

A pinch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat, but you can increase or decrease the amount to suit your preference. For a completely mild version, omit it altogether.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage is essential for maintaining flavor and texture, especially with pasta-based soups like this one. Follow these guidelines to keep your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup fresh and delicious.

Refrigeration

Store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’ve added pasta directly to the pot, expect it to continue absorbing liquid over time. To prevent the soup from becoming too thick, you can store the pasta separately.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, especially if the pasta is stored or added separately. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened, add a bit of water or broth to loosen the consistency. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in one-minute intervals, stirring in between.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup gluten-free?

The soup is not gluten-free if made with regular ditalini pasta. However, it can easily be made gluten-free by substituting a certified gluten-free pasta and ensuring that the broth and other ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, it can be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the meat first on the stovetop, then add all ingredients except pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Add the pasta 20 to 30 minutes before serving to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

This soup is perfect for meal prep. Make it up to two days in advance and store in the refrigerator. For best results, store the pasta separately and add just before serving.

What can I use instead of ditalini pasta?

If ditalini is unavailable, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, orzo, or small shells work well. Choose a size that fits easily on a spoon and cooks quickly.

Can I add greens to this soup?

Yes. Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last five minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.

Why does my soup thicken over time?

The pasta continues to absorb liquid as it sits. To maintain a soup-like consistency, add additional broth or water when reheating.

What gives the soup that signature Olive Garden flavor?

The combination of Italian seasoning, browned beef, tomato-based broth, and the use of two types of beans mimics the Olive Garden version. Adding a Parmesan rind during simmering can enhance the flavor even more.

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Conclusion

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is the perfect example of a meal that is both comforting and nourishing. Its simple ingredients come together to form a flavorful, hearty dish that can serve as a standalone dinner or the centerpiece of a multi-course Italian meal. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite or just need a reliable soup recipe for colder months, this version delivers every time.

With its versatility, rich taste, and easy one-pot preparation, this soup has earned its place as a family favorite. Try it once and you’ll see why it continues to be one of the most-requested homemade copycat recipes.