Craving the comforting taste of Olive Garden’s beloved Pasta e Fagioli soup but prefer the warmth and ease of your own kitchen? Look no further! This ultimate copycat recipe brings the authentic flavors of Italian sausage, pasta, and hearty vegetables right to your dinner table. Perfect for a cozy evening, this soup delivers warmth, richness, and that distinct restaurant quality without ever having to leave home.
Unveiling the Best Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe
Olive Garden has long been a go-to for many, famous for its unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks. Among their iconic offerings, the Pasta e Fagioli soup stands out as a true crowd-pleaser. This Italian classic, a delightful blend of pasta and beans, is elevated by a savory tomato broth, seasoned ground meat, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Our meticulously crafted copycat recipe aims to replicate that exact taste and comforting experience, making it an ideal dish for those chilly winter nights or any time you need a bowl of soul-warming goodness.
There’s something uniquely satisfying about preparing a restaurant-quality meal from scratch. Especially when the weather in places like Spokane turns cold and snowy, the thought of curling up with a hot bowl of homemade soup and staying indoors becomes incredibly appealing. While dining out has its charm, navigating winter roads is often less than ideal. This recipe offers the perfect solution: incredible flavor, maximum comfort, and the convenience of home.
To truly complete your Olive Garden experience at home, consider pairing this magnificent soup with fluffy Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks. And for a grand finale, a slice of Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake makes for an irresistible dessert!
Why Recreate Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli at Home?
Beyond the simple pleasure of a homemade meal, there are numerous benefits to mastering this Olive Garden favorite. Firstly, it’s significantly more cost-effective than ordering takeout, allowing you to feed your family a hearty, delicious meal without breaking the bank. Secondly, making it yourself gives you complete control over the ingredients, enabling you to adjust seasonings, spice levels, or even substitute components to fit dietary needs or personal preferences. Furthermore, the act of cooking this soup fills your home with incredible aromas, creating an inviting atmosphere that only home cooking can provide. It’s a culinary journey that promises warmth, satisfaction, and the unmistakable taste of Italian comfort.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Pasta e Fagioli
Crafting this iconic soup requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients that contribute to its rich, layered flavor profile. Here’s a deeper look at what you’ll need to create an epic Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli. Specific measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions are provided in the full recipe card below.
- Italian Sausage: The cornerstone of this soup’s robust flavor. Choose mild for a classic taste or spicy to add an extra kick. The savory notes from the sausage infuse the entire broth, making it irresistibly delicious.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle richness and helps develop the flavors of the vegetables.
- Celery Stalks, Carrots, and Medium Yellow Onion: This classic trio, often referred to as mirepoix, forms the aromatic base of the soup. Dicing them finely ensures they soften beautifully and blend seamlessly into the broth, releasing their sweet and earthy flavors.
- Garlic: An indispensable aromatic in Italian cooking. Minced garlic adds a pungent, savory depth that is crucial for the soup’s overall character.
- Chicken Broth & Water: The liquid foundation of the soup. Chicken broth provides a savory base, while water helps to achieve the perfect consistency and volume. You can adjust the ratio based on your desired richness.
- Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: These tomato products provide the soup’s signature reddish hue and tangy, umami-rich flavor. Diced tomatoes add texture, while the sauce contributes to a smooth, flavorful broth.
- Parsley, Oregano, Basil, Thyme: A harmonious blend of dried Italian herbs that impart the classic Mediterranean essence to the soup. These aromatics are essential for achieving that authentic Olive Garden taste.
- Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt: Basic seasonings that elevate and balance all the other flavors. Red pepper flakes are optional but highly recommended for a subtle warmth and a touch of the characteristic zest.
- Ditalini Pasta: This small, tube-shaped pasta is traditional for Pasta e Fagioli. Its diminutive size is perfect for spooning and ensures a delightful texture in every bite.
- Cannellini Beans (White Kidney Beans) & Dark Red Kidney Beans: The “fagioli” (beans) in the soup’s name! These beans add incredible heartiness, protein, and a creamy texture. Using both varieties provides a beautiful color contrast and depth of flavor. Remember to drain them, but no need to rinse, as some of the liquid contributes to the soup’s body.
Garnish: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan Cheese is the perfect finishing touch, adding a salty, nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Recommended Equipment for Soup Making Success
Having the right tools makes all the difference in achieving perfect results with any recipe. For this Pasta e Fagioli, a few key pieces of kitchen equipment will simplify the cooking process and ensure a delicious outcome.
- Dutch Oven/Large Pot: Essential for a soup of this volume. A Dutch oven provides excellent heat distribution, preventing scorching and allowing for even cooking. Its generous size also accommodates all ingredients comfortably, allowing for proper simmering and flavor development.
- Mix n Chop: This handy tool is fantastic for breaking up ground meats like Italian sausage or beef into fine, even pieces while browning. It’s incredibly efficient and ensures your sausage is perfectly crumbled throughout the soup. If you don’t have one, a sturdy spoon or spatula will also do the trick.
Crafting Your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli: Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this flavorful soup is a straightforward process, broken down into simple, manageable steps. For complete, detailed instructions with precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Here’s a quick overview to get you started on your culinary journey:
- Brown the Sausage: In your Dutch oven or large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into very small pieces as it cooks. This ensures the sausage is evenly distributed and contributes maximum flavor to the soup. Once thoroughly browned, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Return the pot to the heat. Add the olive oil, then introduce the diced celery, carrots, and onion. Cook these vegetables until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots and celery are tender-crisp, typically about 4-5 minutes. This step is crucial for building the foundational flavors of the soup.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can turn bitter.
- Build the Broth Base: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, parsley, oregano, basil, thyme, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions until the pasta is al dente (tender but still firm to the bite), usually 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Adjust Consistency: As the pasta cooks and absorbs liquid, you may find the soup thickening. Add additional chicken broth as necessary to achieve your desired consistency – whether you prefer a thicker stew-like soup or a more brothy one.
- Incorporate the Beans: Finally, stir in the drained cannellini and kidney beans. Allow the soup to simmer for about 3 minutes, just long enough to heat the beans through without overcooking them.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy immediately!
The total cooking time may vary slightly depending on your specific pot and stove, but generally, this soup comes together quickly and efficiently.
Preparation, Storage, and Reheating Tips
One of the fantastic aspects of this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is its versatility for meal planning. It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.
- Make-Ahead: This soup is wonderfully make-ahead friendly. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to deepen and meld, resulting in an even more delicious and cohesive taste. Just be aware that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so you might need to add a splash more broth when reheating.
- Storage: To keep your leftover soup fresh, transfer cooled portions into airtight containers. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will maintain its quality for up to five days.
- Freezing/How to Freeze: For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Lay bags flat to save space. Enjoy within three months for the best quality. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge.
- How to Reheat: Thaw any frozen Pasta e Fagioli soup you plan to serve overnight in the refrigerator, or on your kitchen countertop until defrosted but still cold. Reheat gently using your microwave or stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Recipe Variations & Customization Ideas
This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Substitutions for Italian Sausage: If you’re looking for an alternative to red meat or pork, ground turkey or Italian turkey sausage are excellent choices. Ground beef can also be used for a similar hearty texture. Just be sure to season well if using unseasoned ground meat.
- Vegetarian & Vegan Options: It’s easy to transform this soup into a plant-based delight! Simply replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based ground meat alternative and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. The cannellini and kidney beans already provide a fantastic source of protein and heartiness, ensuring a satisfying meal for everyone.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: For those avoiding gluten, substitute the ditalini pasta with your favorite gluten-free small pasta shape. The majority of the other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels on broth, tomato products, and spices if you have a high sensitivity.
- Adjusting Serving Size: The base recipe yields six generous servings. It’s simple to scale the ingredients up or down if you’re cooking for a smaller group or preparing a larger batch for entertaining or meal prepping.
- Make It Spicy: For those who love a bit of heat, using spicy Italian sausage is the simplest way to add a kick while maintaining flavor integrity. You can also increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to taste.
- Sugar-Free Version: The recipe contains a minimal amount of sugar (around 5 grams per serving). If you’re aiming for a completely sugar-free soup, opt for sugar-free or no-sugar-added tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Always check ingredient labels carefully.
What to Serve with Your Homemade Pasta e Fagioli Soup
This hearty, bean-filled Olive Garden-inspired soup is a meal in itself, but it truly shines when accompanied by a few classic Italian sides or other copycat favorites. Create a complete takeout experience right at home with these menu planning suggestions:
Essential Sides:
- Olive Garden Breadsticks: A non-negotiable pairing! Their soft, garlicky goodness is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- A Fresh Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
For more soup pairings, check out our comprehensive list of sides for soup.
Other Copycat Olive Garden Favorites to Pair With:
- CrockPot Olive Garden Minestrone Soup (for a soup and salad combo)
- CopyCat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- CrockPot Zuppa Toscana Olive Garden Soup
Complementary Main Dishes (if you want an even bigger feast):
- Homemade Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce (serve over pasta or chicken)
- CopyCat Olive Garden Marinara Sauce (perfect with your favorite pasta dish)
Sweet Endings:
- CopyCat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake
- Tiramisu or a simple scoop of vanilla bean gelato.
When to Savor This Comforting Soup
This versatile Pasta e Fagioli soup is perfect for a variety of occasions:
- Chilly Winter Evenings: Its warmth and heartiness are ideal for warding off the cold.
- Family Dinners: A wholesome and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Casual Gatherings: Easily scaled up for larger groups, it’s a crowd-pleasing option for potlucks or get-togethers.
- Meal Prep: Excellent for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week.
- Date Night In: Impress your special someone with a homemade taste of Italy.
- Italian Night: A core component of any Italian-themed dinner.
Discover More Incredible Copycat Recipes
If you loved recreating Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll definitely want to explore our other fantastic copycat recipes, bringing your favorite restaurant dishes home!
- Texas Roadhouse Loaded Sweet Potato
- Carnival Cruiser Cocktail
- Wendy’s Chili
- Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
- Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Be sure to check out all of our Olive Garden Recipes – we have shared many beloved dishes from the Italian chain, including my personal favorite, the Minestrone soup! Plus, explore our extensive collection of CrockPot soup recipes for more easy meal ideas.
Are you a fan of delicious, easy-to-follow recipes? Dive into our categories for more copycat recipes, delightful dessert recipes, and convenient CrockPot Recipes. There’s always something new to discover!
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Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe
Learn how to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup at home with this easy and flavorful copycat recipe.
Servings: 6
Calories: 611 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lbs. Italian Sausage
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 2 Celery stalks, cleaned and ¼ inch diced
- 2 Carrots, peeled and ¼ inch diced
- 1 Medium Yellow Onion, diced
- 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 28 oz Chicken Broth
- 2 Cups Water
- 1 can Tomato Sauce
- 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Chili Flakes
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 8 oz. Ditalini pasta, uncooked
- 15.5 oz Cannellini Beans (White Kidney Beans), drained (not rinsed)
- 15.5 oz Red Kidney Beans, drained (not rinsed)
- Garnish: Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up into as small pieces as possible. Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Return the Dutch oven to the heat. Add the Olive oil, Celery, Carrots, and Onion. Cook until the onion begins to turn translucent, about 4-5 minutes, and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the minced Garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add 1 can Chicken Broth, Water, Tomato Sauce, Diced Tomatoes, Parsley, Oregano, Basil, Thyme, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes, and Salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add the Ditalini Pasta and cook until al dente, usually 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add additional chicken broth as necessary during or after cooking the pasta to maintain your desired liquid level and consistency.
- Stir in the drained Cannellini and Red Kidney Beans. Simmer for about 3 minutes, or until the beans are heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Kitchen Tools
- Dutch Oven or Large Pot
- Hamburger Mix and Chop (optional, but highly recommended for browning meat)
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe
Amount Per Serving
Calories 611 (Calories from Fat 252)
% Daily Value*
- Fat 28g (43%)
- Saturated Fat 9g (56%)
- Cholesterol 57mg (19%)
- Sodium 1432mg (62%)
- Potassium 940mg (27%)
- Carbohydrates 65g (22%)
- Fiber 12g (50%)
- Sugar 5g (6%)
- Protein 28g (56%)
- Vitamin A 3620IU (72%)
- Vitamin C 22mg (27%)
- Calcium 143mg (14%)
- Iron 6mg (33%)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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Recipe originally shared on January 8, 2015. Updated October 2020, September 2023.