Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) is the perfect dish for any occasion, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. This hearty soup blends tender ditalini pasta with nutritious beans, fresh vegetables, and an array of seasonings in a rich broth. It’s not only delicious but also adaptable for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, making it a standout choice for your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, ensuring you feel satisfied after each bowl.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible even for novice cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side, it suits various occasions from family dinners to potlucks.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh veggies infuses the soup with rich flavors that will impress everyone.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch ahead of time; it freezes well for future meals!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup effectively, having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch Oven
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch Oven: Ideal for slow cooking soups; it retains heat well, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing ingredients, saving time in preparation.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving soup without spilling; it ensures each bowl gets an equal portion.

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 it over medium-high heat until browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the meat is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and drain excess fat while leaving about one tablespoon behind. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Season with the remaining all-purpose seasoning. Cook these vegetables for about 5-8 minutes or until they become tender.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Next, add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook this mixture for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Simmer

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

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Taste your soup before serving. If necessary, add more salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve

In individual serving bowls, place approximately one cup of cooked ditalini pasta then ladle hot soup over it. If desired, top with grated parmesan cheese before enjoying!

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

Serving Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its hearty flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Use Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the soup.

Garnish with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: A classic choice, adding grated parmesan cheese enhances the richness of the soup.
• Shredded Mozzarella: For a creamy texture, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella just before serving.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Breadsticks: Serve warm garlic breadsticks for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Crusty Artisan Bread: A loaf of crusty artisan bread complements the soup perfectly and adds a satisfying crunch.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad offers crispness and balances the warmth of the soup.
• Greek Salad: The tangy flavors of a Greek salad provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

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

To create the best version of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from adjusting spices; they can transform your soup’s flavor profile significantly.
• Quality broth: Use high-quality chicken broth for a more robust base that enhances all other ingredients.
• Proper cooking time: Allow the soup to simmer long enough to let flavors meld but avoid overcooking vegetables to maintain their texture.
• Fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables when possible; they add vibrancy and nutrients to your dish.
• Customize your beans: Feel free to swap in different beans based on your preference or what you have on hand for added variety.
• Rest before serving: Letting the soup sit for about 10 minutes before serving allows flavors to develop further.

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

Accompanying side dishes can enhance your meal and round out your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks infused with garlic flavor are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with a creamy dressing and croutons provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Caprese Salad: Layered tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer bright flavors that complement the soup well.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, vegetables, or ground beef create a hearty addition to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and nutrition to your table.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted slices of bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provide a flavorful appetizer that pairs nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) to perfection.

• Using the wrong type of pasta: Always choose ditalini pasta for the best texture and flavor. Other pasta types may not hold up well in the soup.
• Overcooking vegetables: Sauté vegetables until tender, but not mushy. This preserves their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the soup.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Be sure to taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Skipping the broth: A rich chicken broth is essential. Using water or a low-quality broth can make your soup bland.
• Adding too much pasta at once: Only add cooked ditalini just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy in the soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

• Store in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool).

What is Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)?

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) is a hearty Italian soup made with ground beef, beans, pasta, and vegetables simmered in a savory broth.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth along with extra beans for protein.

How can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)?

You can add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or swap out the beans according to your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool)?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup (Pasta Fazool) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness any day of the week!