Pasta fagioli soup is a comforting dish that everyone loves, and this Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe makes it simple to prepare at home. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with friends and family. This recipe showcases the delightful combination of pasta, beans, and vegetables, making it a truly satisfying meal.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Base Ingredients
- Main Components
- Seasoning & Broth
- Optional Topping
- How to Make Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Step 2: Add Carrots and Celery
- Step 3: Infuse with Garlic
- Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Broth
- Step 5: Season with Beans and Herbs
- Step 6: Cook the Pasta
- Step 7: Final Touches
- How to Serve Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Pair with Crusty Bread
- Add a Side Salad
- Serve with Grated Cheese
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Enjoy with Garlic Breadsticks
- How to Perfect Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Reheating Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Pasta Fagioli?
- Can I use different beans in this recipe?
- How can I customize my Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?
- What should I serve with Pasta Fagioli?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and spices, each bowl bursts with flavor that warms your soul.
- Versatile Meal: Feel free to customize by adding different beans or greens like spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
- Budget-Friendly: Most ingredients are affordable and easy to find, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
- Comfort Food: The combination of tender pasta and savory broth creates a cozy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly and allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Chef’s knife: A good quality knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients
To create this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Base Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
Main Components
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Canned kidney beans
- Ditalini pasta
Seasoning & Broth
- Basil
- Oregano
- Vegetable broth
Optional Topping
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
Step 2: Add Carrots and Celery
Next, incorporate diced carrots and celery into the pot. Stir occasionally until these veggies soften.
Step 3: Infuse with Garlic
Mix in minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step enhances the aroma of your soup.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in canned crushed tomatoes along with vegetable broth. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Season with Beans and Herbs
Add canned kidney beans, along with basil and oregano. Allow this mixture to simmer for approximately 10 minutes for optimal flavor development.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Stir in ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, ensuring it remains firm yet tender.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with optional grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Enjoy this easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
How to Serve Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
Serving Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing its flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting dish that will impress your family and friends.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked baguette or Italian bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every flavorful drop.
Add a Side Salad
- A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, adding freshness and crunch.
Serve with Grated Cheese
- Offering grated Parmesan cheese on the side allows guests to customize their soup, adding a savory touch that enhances flavor.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top not only adds color but also enhances the aroma and freshness of the soup.
Enjoy with Garlic Breadsticks
- Classic garlic breadsticks provide a satisfying crunch and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the warm soup.
How to Perfect Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
To make this dish even more delicious, keep a few tips in mind. These simple adjustments can elevate your Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup to new heights.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile, making your soup taste vibrant and delicious.
Adjust seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste your soup during cooking. Adjusting salt and pepper can significantly enhance its overall flavor.
Cook pasta separately: Cooking ditalini pasta separately helps prevent it from becoming mushy when added to the soup.
Experiment with beans: Try different types of beans like cannellini or black beans for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Add leafy greens: Tossing in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking increases nutrition and adds color to your dish.
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 great options to consider:
Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth of the soup.
Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a light contrast to the hearty soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add depth and can be made easily alongside your main dish for convenience.
Cheesy Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas provide a fun twist that kids will love while complementing the flavors in the soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty side that pairs well with the lighter pasta fagioli.
Crispy Potato Wedges: These golden wedges add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make your Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe perfect, be aware of these common mistakes.
- Using the wrong pasta: Choosing a pasta that cooks longer than the soup can lead to mushy results. Always opt for ditalini or other small, quick-cooking pasta varieties.
- Not sautéing vegetables properly: Under-cooked onions or garlic can ruin the flavor. Make sure to sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
- Over-seasoning the broth: Adding too much salt or spices at once can overpower the dish. Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning gradually.
- Skipping the simmering step: This soup benefits from flavors melding together. Allow it to simmer for at least 10 minutes to enhance taste.
- Ignoring customization options: Not taking advantage of substitutions can limit your soup’s nutrition and flavor. Feel free to add different beans or greens for variety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep your soup fresh.
Freezing Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe.
What is Pasta Fagioli?
Pasta fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans, often enhanced with vegetables and herbs. It’s comforting and nutritious.
Can I use different beans in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute canned cannellini or navy beans for kidney beans or add mixed beans for extra texture and flavor.
How can I customize my Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add spinach, kale, or other veggies for added nutrition. You can also adjust herbs based on your preference for more aromatic flavors.
What should I serve with Pasta Fagioli?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad. These options complement its hearty nature perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly night or a dish packed with nutrients, this recipe has it all. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
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Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the warmth and comfort of homemade Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup. This hearty Italian soup combines tender ditalini pasta, protein-packed kidney beans, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful vegetable broth, making it perfect for chilly evenings or casual family gatherings. Packed with nutrients and rich flavors, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also budget-friendly, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Customize it by adding your favorite greens or different beans for an extra nutritional boost. Whether served with crusty bread or a light salad, this cozy dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Canned kidney beans
- Ditalini pasta
- Vegetable broth
- Basil
- Oregano
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent.
- Add diced carrots and celery; stir until softened.
- Mix in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in canned crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; stir well.
- Add canned kidney beans, basil, and oregano; simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in ditalini pasta; cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 228
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg





