Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and hearty bean and pasta soup that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This easy, one-pot recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your pantry staples. Enjoy this warm bowl of goodness any time you crave a filling meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with beans, vegetables, and pasta, it’s perfect for satisfying hunger.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever beans or pasta you have on hand for a custom dish every time.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The mild taste makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli, having the right tools can simplify the cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups as it allows for even heating and ample space for ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without damaging your countertops.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts, making prep work quicker and safer.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables and Aromatics

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

Proteins and Legumes

• 2 mild sausages (casings removed)
• 1/2 can red kidney beans
• 1/2 can white beans

Broth and Sauces

• 4 cups broth
• 15 oz diced tomatoes
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 2 TBSP ketchup

Seasonings and Pasta

• 1/3 cup Ditalini pasta
• 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: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing the onion, julienning the carrot, and mincing the garlic.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat:
1. Add the mild sausage meat.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the sausage is browned:
1. Stir in the diced onion, carrot, and minced garlic.
2. Sauté until the onion turns translucent.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Tomatoes

Next:
1. Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and ketchup.
2. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Add Beans and Pasta

Once boiling:
1. Stir in red kidney beans, white beans, Ditalini pasta, dried basil, celery seed, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Lower heat to simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Until Ready

Let it cook for about 20 minutes:
1. Stir occasionally until pasta is tender.
2. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli! It’s sure to be a favorite at your dinner table!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its flavors and delight your family.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Breadsticks: Serve warm, buttery breadsticks alongside the soup for dipping.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of fresh baguette adds a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds a rich, savory flavor.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can give the dish an extra creamy element.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil leaves add freshness and a pop of color.
• Parsley: Sprinkling some parsley enhances the dish’s visual appeal and flavor.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the soup’s heartiness perfectly.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli at home can be simple yet rewarding. Here are some tips to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor of your soup significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjusting salt, pepper, or herbs can make all the difference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid overcooking, cook Ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances the flavors and melds them together beautifully.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze enhance your dining experience.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutritional value to your meal.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a refreshing bite before the soup.
5. Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of the soup.
6. Risotto Balls: Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these are a delightful appetizer option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli perfect, keep these common mistakes in mind.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong type of beans or pasta can affect texture and flavor. Stick to red kidney and white beans, and use Ditalini pasta for authenticity.
• Bold preparation times: Rushing your prep can lead to uneven cooking. Take your time to properly dice vegetables and measure ingredients before cooking.
• Bold seasoning errors: Too little or too much seasoning can ruin the soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs gradually.
• Bold broth selection: Using a low-quality broth can dull the taste. Opt for a flavorful chicken or vegetable broth for the best results.
• Bold cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can cause the pasta to overcook. Keep it at medium heat to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add soup to a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli.

What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli?

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with beans, pasta, and vegetables simmered in a rich broth.

How long does it take to make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli?

This recipe takes about 28 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time.

Can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like spinach or kale, switch up the beans, or even add different types of pasta.

Is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with protein from beans and is full of vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours!