Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a weeknight dinner, this soup delivers hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. The combination of tender ditalini pasta, beans, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth makes it a standout choice that will warm you from the inside out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is a meal in itself.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this dish.
- Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week.
- Flavorful: The blend of spices and fresh vegetables creates a rich taste that delights the palate.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this hearty soup filled with pasta and beans.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand to streamline your experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution and simmering soups without burning.
- Wooden spoon: Gentle on cookware surfaces and perfect for stirring without scratching.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.
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 Serving
- 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 ground beef with one teaspoon of all-purpose seasoning. Brown over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once cooked, remove the ground beef from the pot. Drain excess fat but leave one tablespoon in the pot. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; season with remaining all-purpose seasoning. Cook for 5–8 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional minute to release flavors.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add diced tomatoes (with their liquid), both types of beans, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste the soup before serving; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve with Pasta
In individual serving bowls, add one cup of cooked ditalini pasta then ladle over the hot soup. Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)!
How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)
Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a comforting experience. You can enjoy this hearty soup on its own or pair it with various accompaniments to elevate your meal.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup’s savory notes wonderfully.
Add a Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a refreshing crunch.
- Italian Chopped Salad: A mix of colorful vegetables and olives provides a nice contrast to the warmth of the soup.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for added freshness.
- Cheese: Grated Parmesan or mozzarella can enhance the dish’s creaminess.
How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)
Making the perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail and a few expert tips. Follow these simple suggestions to enhance your soup-making skills.
- Bold Seasoning: Use fresh herbs and spices to boost flavors. Consider adjusting the amount of Italian seasoning for your taste.
- Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality beef and fresh vegetables for a richer flavor profile.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just make sure to check on it occasionally.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to maintain its texture.
- Taste Test: Always taste your soup before serving, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)
Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal that satisfies any appetite. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots tossed in garlic and parsley make excellent dippers.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light contrast.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and cheese add nutritional value and flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until crispy provide a healthy side option.
- Antipasto Platter: A variety of olives, cheeses, and cured meats create an appealing spread.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory nature of the soup beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.
- Overcooking the pasta: This can lead to mushy noodles in your soup. To avoid this, cook the ditalini pasta separately until al dente, then add it to the soup just before serving.
- Neglecting seasonings: Without proper seasoning, your soup may taste bland. Always taste the broth and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef can reduce flavor depth. Ensure you brown it thoroughly for a richer taste.
- Using canned beans without rinsing: This can add excess sodium and a tinny flavor. Rinse your beans under cold water before adding them to the pot.
- Not simmering long enough: A short simmer may not allow flavors to meld. Aim for at least 20 minutes of simmering for a more flavorful soup.
- Ignoring vegetable texture: Overcooked vegetables can turn mushy. Cook them just until softened for a better texture in your soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)?
Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian soup made with beans, vegetables, ground beef, and pasta, all simmered in rich broth.
How long does it take to make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)?
The total time for making this delicious soup is about 45 minutes, including both preparation and cooking times.
Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with textured vegetable protein or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
What can I serve with Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Its hearty ingredients make it filling while remaining versatile enough for customization. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste!
Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)
Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, often referred to as Pasta Fazool, is a heartwarming dish that combines robust flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it ideal for any occasion. This comforting soup features tender ditalini pasta, nutritious beans, and an array of fresh vegetables simmered in a savory broth that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is not only filling but also incredibly easy to prepare. With its delightful blend of spices and fresh produce, even picky eaters will find joy in every spoonful. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness that brings everyone together!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 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
- 15 ounces Cannelini Beans
- 15 ounces Kidney Beans
- 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt and Pepper
- 1 pound Ditalini Pasta (cooked)
Instructions
- Brown 1.5 pounds of ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat with one teaspoon of all-purpose seasoning until fully cooked.
- Remove the beef and drain excess fat, leaving about one tablespoon in the pot. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; cook for 5–8 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic (4 cloves), Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon), crushed red pepper (1/2 teaspoon), and a bay leaf; sauté for another minute.
- Return the ground beef to the pot along with 15 ounces each of cannelini and kidney beans, 14.5 ounces of diced tomatoes with liquid, and 4 cups of chicken broth. Mix well.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving over one cup of cooked ditalini pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg