Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Name: Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow); 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and flavorful soup that brings the taste of Olive Garden right to your kitchen.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:42:44.584Z

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe captures the essence of the famous restaurant's beloved soup. Packed with beans, pasta, and vegetables, it's a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for cold days
Rich flavors that develop beautifully while simmering
Easy to make and ready in under an hour

      

A Delicious Classic

Pasta e Fagioli is a beloved Italian dish that translates to 'pasta and beans.' This hearty soup is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner. The combination of beans and pasta creates a comforting texture that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or as a filling lunch, this soup will surely become a family favorite.

Inspired by Olive Garden's famous recipe, this version brings the restaurant experience right to your dining table. The rich flavors of ground meat, vegetables, and Italian seasonings come together in a delightful way, creating a dish that’s both savory and fulfilling. Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite beans or pasta shapes, allowing you to make it your own.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best things about this Pasta e Fagioli recipe is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for later use. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal ready to go. Just reheat, and you have a nutritious dinner in minutes.

Moreover, the flavors of the soup only enhance as it sits, meaning leftovers taste even better the next day. Prepare a big pot on the weekend, and you’ll have hearty lunches or dinners for the week ahead. It’s an easy way to ensure you and your family are eating well, even on the busiest days.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Pasta e Fagioli, there are plenty of delightful options to enhance your meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a delicious salty note that complements the soup beautifully. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for a complete and satisfying meal. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth and soaking up all those wonderful flavors.

For a touch of freshness, consider adding a simple side salad with your favorite greens and a light vinaigrette. This will balance the heartiness of the soup and add a refreshing element. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this hearty dish will impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Meat

Add the minced garlic and ground beef or sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7-10 minutes.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, pasta, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the flavors meld together.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Benefits

Pasta e Fagioli is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which help keep you feeling full longer. Ground beef or sausage adds richness and additional protein, making this soup a well-rounded meal. The variety of vegetables in the mix also contributes essential vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health.

Additionally, this soup is low in calories yet high in nutrients, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. With each spoonful, you’re not only enjoying a delightful flavor experience but also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this Pasta e Fagioli recipe! If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more beans or vegetables. You can also experiment with different types of pasta; whole wheat or gluten-free options work well too. For added flavor, consider incorporating some fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end of cooking.

If you like a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can give your soup a spicy kick. You can also play around with the broth; chicken or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives to beef broth, depending on your preference. The versatility of this recipe allows you to tailor it to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What type of pasta should I use?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work best, but you can use any pasta you have on hand.