Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

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When you think of comfort food in a bowl, Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli instantly comes to mind. It captures everything we love about hearty Italian soups—a rich tomato broth, tender pasta, savory ground beef, and plenty of beans. It’s the kind of recipe that hugs you from the inside out.

This homemade version of the restaurant classic doesn’t cut corners on flavor. With pantry staples and fresh veggies, it simmers into a robust, soul-warming dish perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep. One spoonful and you’ll forget takeout ever existed.

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Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This soup delivers layers of flavor with minimal effort. The ground beef adds richness, while the combination of kidney and cannellini beans brings texture and heartiness. Ditalini pasta soaks up all the goodness from the tomato-based broth, and the herbs make every bite aromatic and satisfying.

Not only is it a filling meal on its own, but it’s also a fantastic way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Plus, it stores beautifully—flavors only deepen the next day!

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Pasta e Fagioli?

Ditalini is the traditional pasta choice for Pasta e Fagioli. Its small, tube-like shape is perfect for spooning up alongside the beans and broth. If you can’t find ditalini, other small pastas like elbow macaroni, small shells, or even orzo will do the trick. Just keep in mind that smaller pasta works best to maintain that classic hearty-yet-soupy texture.

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Ingredients for the Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in building its rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture:

• Ground beef: The backbone of the soup’s heartiness. Browning it well creates a flavorful base.
• Carrots, celery, and onion: This classic mirepoix adds natural sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Adds sharpness and warmth to balance the richness.
• Diced tomatoes & tomato sauce: Bring body and acidity to the broth.
• Beef broth: Enhances the savory elements and ties all the ingredients together.
• Red kidney beans & cannellini beans: Provide creaminess and protein, making the soup extra filling.
• Ditalini pasta: Soaks up the flavorful broth and keeps each bite satisfying.
• Italian seasoning & bay leaf: Infuse the soup with bold, herby notes.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

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How To Make the Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well. Add the kidney beans and cannellini beans, along with the Italian seasoning and bay leaf.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta Separately

While the soup simmers, cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the cooked pasta just before serving to prevent it from getting mushy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or Parmesan if desired.

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How to Store and Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This recipe yields 6 generous servings—ideal for family dinners or weekly meal prep. To store, keep the soup and pasta separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup and add in the pasta.

Freezing tip: Freeze the soup without pasta for best results. Pasta can become mushy once thawed and reheated.

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What to Serve With Pasta e Fagioli?

1. Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that savory broth.

2. Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with Italian dressing balances the richness of the soup.

3. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Adds a bit of crunch and a touch of sharpness.

4. Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes bring a light, zesty contrast.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers

A heartier companion if you’re feeding big appetites.

6. Homemade Breadsticks

Soft, warm, and brushed with butter—they’re always a hit.

7. Bruschetta

Tomato and basil on crispy baguette slices offers a refreshing appetizer.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this cozy bowl of Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, check out these other comforting creations:

• Easy Vegetable Beef Soup for a nourishing and hearty option.
• A Hearty and Comforting Tuscan Bean Soup that brings rustic flavors.
• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for something rich and cheesy.
• The Best Chili Recipe if you’re in the mood for something with a kick.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it with ground turkey? Add a spicy twist? I love seeing how these recipes take on new life in your kitchens.

Explore more hearty and healthy meals on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and get inspired to cook comfort with ease!

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