I’ve always loved the comforting flavors of Olive Garden, especially their Pasta Fagioli. There’s something about that rich, hearty soup with tender beans and pasta that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. I wanted to bring that same cozy feeling into my own kitchen.
After some tweaking and experimenting, I finally nailed a copycat recipe that captures all the delicious elements of the original. Whether you’ve been craving it since your last visit or just want to enjoy a taste of Olive Garden at home, this Pasta Fagioli is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
Pasta Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 cup small elbow macaroni
- 1 cup broken spaghetti strands
Seasonings
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Tools and Equipment
To recreate my Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli copycat recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
Essential for simmering the hearty ingredients evenly without sticking or burning.
- Chef’s Knife
A sharp, sturdy knife is perfect for chopping vegetables and meats with precision.
- Cutting Board
Provides a stable surface for all your prep work, keeping your ingredients organized.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements ensure the flavors balance perfectly for that authentic taste.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Ideal for stirring the soup gently, preventing any damage to your pot.
- Ladle
Makes serving the rich and chunky soup effortless and mess-free.
- Colander
Necessary for draining and rinsing the beans to achieve the right texture.
- Mixing Bowls
Handy for prepping ingredients and mixing components before cooking.
- Stove
A reliable heat source is crucial for maintaining a consistent simmer throughout the cooking process.
Having these tools on hand will streamline your cooking experience, allowing you to focus on perfecting the flavors and enjoying the process of making this comforting Pasta Fagioli at home.
Directions
Recreating Olive Garden’s Pasta Fagioli has been a rewarding journey. Follow these steps to make a hearty, comforting soup right in your kitchen.
Prep the Ingredients
I start by finely chopping one large onion, two celery stalks, and two carrots. Next, I mince three cloves of garlic to release their aromatic flavors. In a medium bowl, I combine 1 pound of ground beef with 1 pound of Italian sausage, breaking them apart with my hands to ensure they cook evenly.
Cook the Soup
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots to the pot. I sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. Then, I stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavors. Next, I add the ground beef and Italian sausage mixture, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. I cook the meat until it’s browned, which takes approximately 7 to 8 minutes.
Add the Pasta and Beans
Once the meat is browned, I pour in one 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes and 4 cups of beef broth. To balance the flavors, I add 1 cup of chicken broth. I then incorporate one 15-ounce can of cannellini beans and one 15-ounce can of kidney beans, making sure to drain and rinse them beforehand. For seasoning, I sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of basil, and add a bay leaf to infuse the soup with herby notes.
Simmer and Finalize
I bring the soup to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low. I add 2 cups of ditalini pasta and 1 cup of elbow macaroni, allowing them to cook for 15 minutes. To achieve the perfect texture, I stir in 1 cup of broken spaghetti strands and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente. After removing the bay leaf, I season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, I garnish each serving with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley, adding a delightful finish to this comforting dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Pasta Fagioli ahead of time can streamline your cooking process and enhance the flavors. Here’s how I ensure my soup is just as delicious when made in advance:
- Chop and Store Vegetables
- Finely chop the onions, celery, and carrots.
- Mince the garlic.
- Place the vegetables in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture
- Combine ground beef and Italian sausage in a bowl.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Store the seasoned meat in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Measure and Combine Dry Ingredients
- Measure out the beans, diced tomatoes, and pasta.
- Keep these ingredients in separate labeled containers or zip-top bags.
- This organization allows for quick assembly when ready to cook.
- Pre-Make the Broth Mixture
- Mix beef and chicken broth with additional seasonings like bay leaves.
- Store in a large airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Assemble and Freeze Portions
- In freezer-safe containers, layer the vegetables, meat, beans, diced tomatoes, and dry pasta.
- Leave space at the top for the broth.
- Label each container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring you have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.
- Thawing and Cooking
- Transfer the frozen portion to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Follow the cooking steps as usual, adding the pre-prepared broth and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Simmer until the pasta is perfectly tender and flavors meld together beautifully.
By following these make-ahead steps, you can enjoy a hearty and flavorful Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli anytime with minimal effort.
Serving Suggestions
Once your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli is simmering to perfection, it’s time to elevate the dining experience with thoughtful serving ideas. Here’s how I like to present this hearty soup to make every meal feel special.
Perfect Pairings
Pair your Pasta Fagioli with a freshly baked loaf of garlic bread. I toast the bread until golden brown, then spread a generous layer of garlic butter mixed with parsley. The crispy bread is ideal for dipping and complements the rich flavors of the soup.
Elegant Presentation
Ladle the soup into warm bowls to keep it cozy. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each serving for a savory finish. Add a handful of chopped fresh parsley to introduce a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Wine Recommendations
A glass of robust red wine pairs beautifully with Pasta Fagioli. I recommend a Chianti or a Sangiovese to enhance the tomato and herb notes in the soup. If you prefer white wine, a crisp Pinot Grigio offers a delightful contrast.
Additional Sides
Enhance the meal with a simple green salad. I toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad balances the warmth of the soup, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Make It a Feast
For a more substantial meal, serve the soup alongside grilled chicken or Italian sausage. Adding protein transforms the Pasta Fagioli into a complete and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Final Touches
To add a touch of indulgence, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top of each bowl. The rich oil enhances the flavors and adds a silky texture that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
With these serving suggestions, your Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli will not only taste amazing but also look and feel like a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Conclusion
Bringing Olive Garden’s Pasta Fagioli into my home kitchen has been a delightful adventure. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a hearty bowl filled with rich flavors and comforting textures.
Every step of the process, from selecting the ingredients to the final garnish, has its own charm. It’s amazing how a little effort can recreate such a beloved dish.
I hope this recipe helps you create memorable meals for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful and the warmth it brings to your table.
