Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Name: Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes; 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup ditalini pasta; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and hearty soup that combines rich flavors with nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal choice for any meal.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:35:45.859Z

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a beloved classic that brings the taste of Italy to your home. With a blend of pasta, beans, and vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with a perfect balance of flavors
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
A comforting dish that warms you from the inside out

      

A Hearty Comfort Food

Pasta e Fagioli, often referred to as 'pasta and beans', is a traditional Italian dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. This Olive Garden-inspired version is rich and satisfying, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The combination of ground beef, beans, and vegetables creates a hearty soup that not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul.

The inclusion of ditalini pasta adds a delightful texture, complementing the tender beans and flavorful broth. Each spoonful offers a delightful medley of ingredients, ensuring that you get a taste of everything in every bite. It's a dish that brings everyone to the table, encouraging conversation and connection over a warm bowl of goodness.

Nutritious Ingredients

This soup is not just delicious; it’s packed with nutritious ingredients. Rich in protein from the ground beef and beans, it provides the energy needed for an active lifestyle. The variety of vegetables, including carrots and celery, adds essential vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal.

Moreover, beans are a fantastic source of fiber, which aids digestion and contributes to overall health. This recipe is an excellent way to incorporate more legumes into your diet, promoting heart health and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Even better, the use of fresh herbs like oregano and basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds antioxidant properties.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is its suitability for meal prep. The soup stores well in the refrigerator and can also be frozen for later use. This makes it an ideal dish for busy weeks when time is limited but you still want a homemade meal.

Simply prepare a large batch on the weekend, portion it into individual containers, and you have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go. Reheating is quick and easy, making it a convenient option for anyone juggling a hectic schedule. Enjoying a bowl of this hearty soup will feel like a comforting hug at the end of a long day.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup ditalini pasta
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Meat

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Cook the Pasta

Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.

Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or a side salad. A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the flavors of the soup beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving. This adds a lovely kick that balances the rich flavors of the soup, making each bite even more exciting. Don't forget a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Variations to Try

While this recipe captures the classic essence of Pasta e Fagioli, feel free to get creative! Consider adding spinach or kale for a nutrient boost, or substitute turkey for a leaner protein option. You can also experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, to personalize the dish to your taste.

If you're looking for a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or lentils. Enhance the flavor with vegetable broth and load it up with your favorite seasonal vegetables. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own while still enjoying the comforting essence of the classic soup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers.

→ What can I serve with Pasta e Fagioli?

It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! You can use any beans you prefer, such as black beans or pinto beans.

→ How long does it take to cook?

The total cooking time is about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking.