Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and hearty soup that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in. The unique blend of beans, pasta, and spices creates a rich and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in under 30 minutes.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich beans, this soup is not only filling but also healthy.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes for a personal touch.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of savory ingredients delivers a warm and inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli efficiently, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, making prep quicker and safer.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli, you will need the following ingredients:

Vegetables and Aromatics

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

Proteins and Beans

• 2 mild sausages (casings removed) (substitute with chicken or turkey if preferred)
• 1/2 can red kidney beans
• 1/2 can white beans

Liquids 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 Base

Start by heating your large pot over medium heat. Add the mild sausages and cook until browned. Break them into smaller pieces as they cook.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the sausage is browned, stir in the diced onion, julienned carrot, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Liquids

Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and ketchup. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Add Beans and Seasonings

Add the red kidney beans, white beans, dried basil, celery seed, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Allow the mixture to come to a boil. Once boiling, add the Ditalini pasta. Simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat. Taste for seasoning adjustments if needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and filling dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the soup.
• Crusty Baguette: Slice and serve with butter for a delicious contrast to the warm soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the top for added flavor and richness.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melt mozzarella on top for a gooey, cheesy touch that kids will love.

As Part of a Meal

• Salad Side: Pair with a light salad to balance the hearty soup. A simple mixed greens salad works beautifully.
• Dinner Roll: Serve warm dinner rolls for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli at home can be simple and rewarding. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, then adjust according to taste as it cooks.
• Cook Ditalini Pasta Separately: For perfect pasta texture, cook Ditalini al dente before adding it to the soup.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer for an extra 10-15 minutes helps flavors meld beautifully.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

Pairing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli with complementary side dishes enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons offers a refreshing crunch.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic provides a flavorful bite.
3. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft knots are perfect for dipping into the rich broth of the soup.
4. Caprese Salad: Sliced fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar add freshness to your plate.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables make a hearty side addition.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and pair well with the soup’s flavors.
7. Focaccia Bread: This soft Italian bread is perfect for dipping into your bowl of pasta fagioli.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served with tortilla chips adds a fun twist to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli can be simple, but there are some common missteps to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong type of sausage can alter the flavor. Opt for mild chicken or turkey sausage instead.
• Ignoring broth quality: A bland broth will lead to a dull soup. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for better flavor.
• Overcooking pasta: Ditalini pasta can become mushy if overcooked. Add it towards the end of cooking to keep it al dente.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting while cooking can result in an unseasoned dish. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Neglecting vegetable prep: Slicing vegetables too thick can affect cooking time. Ensure even cuts for consistent texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?

You can substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of meat broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use different pasta shapes in this recipe?

Yes! While Ditalini is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape you prefer, such as elbow macaroni or small shells.

What other beans can I include in Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli?

Feel free to mix and match beans! Black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas all work well and add unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and versatile recipe perfect for family dinners. It allows for customization with various proteins and vegetables, making it easy to adapt based on personal preferences. Give it a try today!

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Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and comforting soup that encapsulates the essence of Italian cuisine right in your kitchen. This delightful one-pot meal blends rich flavors from tender beans, fresh vegetables, and pasta, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With minimal prep time and a quick cooking process, you can enjoy this dish in under 30 minutes! The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Perfect for meal prep, this soup tastes even better the next day, making it a wonderful option for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 onion (diced)
• 1 carrot (julienned)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 chicken or turkey sausages (casings removed)
• 1/2 can red kidney beans
• 1/2 can white beans
• 4 cups broth
• 15 oz diced tomatoes
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 2 TBSP ketchup
• 1/3 cup Ditalini pasta
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp celery seed
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the chicken or turkey sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces.
2. 2. Add diced onion, julienned carrot, and minced garlic; sauté until softened (3-5 minutes).
3. 3. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and ketchup; mix well.
4. 4. Stir in red kidney beans, white beans, dried basil, celery seed, sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. 5. Bring to a boil; then add Ditalini pasta and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender.
6. 6. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg