Description
This Classic Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and comforting Italian soup, packed with beans, pasta, and a rich tomato broth. Inspired by the Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Recipe, this homemade version is even better than the restaurant favorite! Whether you’re craving a Copycat Olive Garden Pasta dish or a traditional Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, this easy one-pot meal delivers bold flavors. Serve it with crusty bread for the perfect cozy dinner. If you love Olive Garden Pasta, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or small pasta)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics & Meat:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef or Italian sausage (if using) and cook until browned.
- Stir in onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Build the Flavor:
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth.
- Add kidney beans, cannellini beans, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook the Pasta:
- Add ditalini pasta to the pot and cook for 10 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Finish & Serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve hot with crusty bread and enjoy!
Notes
- For an authentic Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli taste, use ground beef and Italian seasoning.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!
