Pasta fagioli soup Olive Garden style is a heartwarming dish filled with tender pasta, flavorful beans, and aromatic vegetables. This Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and can be customized to suit any palate. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a delightful starter for a special occasion, this soup will warm your soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs, vegetables, and beans creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily swap in different beans or add greens like spinach for extra nutrition.
- Cozy Comfort Food: Perfectly hearty and warming, it’s an excellent choice during chilly weather.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this delicious soup!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools for this recipe. Having everything on hand will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Ladle
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A must-have for cooking the soup evenly without overcrowding ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for vegetables, speeding up your prep time.

Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
For the Flavor
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Canned kidney beans
- Vegetable broth
- Basil and oregano
For the Pasta
- Ditalini pasta
Optional Topping
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent.
Step 2: Add Carrots and Celery
Add diced carrots and celery; stir occasionally until softened.
Step 3: Incorporate Garlic
Mix in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
Step 5: Add Beans and Herbs
Add kidney beans, basil, and oregano; let simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Cook Pasta
Stir in pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 7: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
This easy Olive Garden pasta fagioli soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
Serving your Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is an enjoyable experience, as it allows you to customize each bowl according to personal preferences. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that can enhance your meal.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Adding freshly chopped basil or parsley not only boosts the flavor but also adds a vibrant color to the soup.
Include Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a delightful crunch and aromatic pairing that complements the soup perfectly.
Add a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple mixed green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Offer Grated Cheese
- Parmesan or Pecorino: For those who enjoy cheese, offering grated Parmesan or Pecorino on the side allows guests to sprinkle as desired.
Serve in Bread Bowls
- Edible Bowls: For a fun twist, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a unique dining experience that’s both tasty and visual.
How to Perfect Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
To elevate your Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.
- Bold Flavor Boosters: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor depth.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones whenever possible, as they provide a brighter taste.
- Cook Pasta Separately: Boil ditalini pasta separately before adding it to the soup. This prevents it from becoming overly soft during cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, or additional herbs for a more personalized flavor.
- Serve Hot: Make sure to serve the soup hot to maintain its comforting qualities and bring out all its flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing adds a crunchy contrast that complements the soup’s warmth.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a light and flavorful appetizer.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a savory side that enhances the meal’s overall flavors.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft and fluffy biscuits with garlic and cheese make for an indulgent treat alongside your soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, beans, or rice create a nutritious side that pairs nicely with the soup’s heartiness.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers offers an Italian flair to your dinner table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s important to steer clear of common errors to achieve the best results.
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Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned goods or vegetables can affect the overall flavor. Opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible.
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Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long in the soup, it can become mushy. Cook it al dente and add it just before serving.
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Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can lead to bland soup. Make sure to taste your soup before serving and season accordingly.
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Skipping aromatics: Skipping garlic or onions may result in a less flavorful dish. Always include these ingredients for a richer taste.
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Using too much broth: Adding excess broth can dilute flavors. Use the recommended amount and adjust based on your preference for soup thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.
Reheating Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe and their answers.
Can I make this Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply omit any animal-derived ingredients like Parmesan cheese and use vegetable broth.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Ditalini pasta is traditionally used, but you can substitute with small shells or elbow macaroni if needed.
How do I store leftovers from the Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions that enhance both nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. With options to customize by adding different beans or vegetables, it’s perfect for any day of the week. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
Warm up your evenings with our Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, a delightful medley of tender pasta, hearty beans, and aromatic vegetables. This comforting soup is not only quick to prepare in just 45 minutes but also brimming with rich flavors that make it a perfect choice for both cozy weeknights and special gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite greens or beans to suit your taste preferences. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main dish, this soup will surely become a family favorite that warms both the heart and soul.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Canned kidney beans
- Vegetable broth
- Basil and oregano
- Ditalini pasta
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent.
- Add diced carrots and celery; stir occasionally until softened.
- Mix in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
- Add kidney beans, basil, and oregano; let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg



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