Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) is a delicious and hearty dish that warms you up on cold days. This soup, packed with vegetables, beans, and tender ground beef, is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it an ideal choice for any occasion, from weeknight meals to festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: The combination of pasta, beans, and beef creates a satisfying meal that will keep you full.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup comes together quickly.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or beans for a unique twist each time you make it.
• Perfect for Batch Cooking: Make a large pot and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Rich in Flavor: The blend of Italian seasonings and fresh vegetables provides a depth of flavor that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool), having the right tools makes all the difference. Below are essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking soups; it enables even heat distribution.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meat.
• Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that helps with precise cutting of all ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of spices and seasonings for perfect flavor.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 1/2 pounds Ground Beef
• 2 teaspoons All Purpose Seasoning (divided)
• 1 Onion (Large, diced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 3 Carrots (diced)
• 3 stalks Celery (diced)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper

For the Beans and Broth

• 15 ounces Cannelini Beans
• 15 ounces Kidney Beans
• 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt and Pepper

For the Pasta

• 1 pound Ditalini Pasta (cooked)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large dutch oven, season the ground beef with 1 teaspoon of all-purpose seasoning. Cook over medium-high heat until browned.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Once the meat is fully cooked, remove it from the pot. Drain excess fat, leaving one tablespoon in the pot. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sprinkle with remaining all-purpose seasoning. Cook for about 5–8 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and bay leaf. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned ground beef to the dutch oven. Pour in diced tomatoes, both types of beans with their liquid, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes to meld flavors together.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

After simmering, taste your soup. If necessary, add salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve with Ditalini Pasta

In individual serving bowls, place about 1 cup of cooked ditalini pasta. Ladle hot soup over the pasta before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)! It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing the flavors and making the meal inviting. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that can elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Consider garnishing each bowl with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color and an aromatic touch.

Accompanied by a Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup and adds freshness to your meal.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer grated parmesan cheese on the side for those who enjoy a cheesy finish to their soup.

As Part of a Family-Style Meal

• Serve in large bowls on a communal table, allowing everyone to help themselves while enjoying other dishes together.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Perfecting Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup involves paying attention to flavor balance and ingredient quality. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality canned beans for better flavor in your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer longer than 20 minutes for deeper flavors. Just don’t let the pasta overcook!
• Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrients and texture.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your savory soup.
2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add flavor and nutrition; consider carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
4. Cheesy Breadsticks
   Soft breadsticks topped with cheese complement the soup’s heartiness nicely.
5. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing create a delightful crunch alongside your soup.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory stuffed mushrooms make an elegant appetizer that pairs well with the comforting flavors of pasta fagioli.
7. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds a nutritious element while balancing out the hearty soup.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a subtle flavor that works well as a side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup at home can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for the perfect dish.

• Bold choice of beans: Using just one type of bean can limit flavor. Mix Cannellini and Kidney beans for a richer taste and texture.
• Bold seasoning neglect: Forgetting to season your broth properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Bold pasta mishaps: Overcooking ditalini pasta can make it mushy. Cook it al dente separately and add it just before serving.
• Bold ingredient shortcuts: Skipping fresh vegetables reduces nutrition and flavor. Use fresh onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for the best results.
• Bold storage errors: Not storing leftovers properly can spoil the soup. Use airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

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

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool), you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey or lamb can be great substitutes if you want a variation from beef.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool), simply omit meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) is an inviting dish that warms both heart and soul. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal taste or dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Try this delightful soup today!