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 pound Italian sausage; 1 cup chopped onions; 1/2 cup chopped carrots; 1/2 cup chopped celery; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your dinner table with this comforting Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe. A delightful blend of savory sausage, hearty beans, and tender pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth, this dish is perfect for chilly nights. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a family favorite that will leave everyone satisfied and craving more.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-12T03:21:15.702Z

This comforting soup combines classic Italian ingredients to create a warm, hearty meal that everyone loves.

The Perfect Comfort Food

As the weather cools down, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to nourish the soul. This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe embodies comfort food, combining protein, vegetables, and pasta all in one hearty dish. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup is sure to warm you from the inside out while satisfying your taste buds.

What's special about this dish is its flexibility. You can add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Need to use up some spinach? Toss it in! Want to make it vegetarian? Substitute the sausage with plant-based meat alternatives. The adaptability of this recipe makes it suitable for various dietary needs and encourages creativity in the kitchen.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

This Pasta e Fagioli dish not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrition. The beans provide a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer. Including vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery adds essential vitamins and minerals to the mix, contributing to a balanced meal.

Moreover, the use of tomatoes in the recipe adds lycopene, an antioxidant known for its health benefits. By choosing quality ingredients such as low-sodium broth and fresh vegetables, you elevate this dish from basic comfort food to a wholesome meal that supports overall health without compromising on flavor.

Tips for Best Results

To achieve the best flavor in your Pasta e Fagioli, consider preparing it a day in advance. Not only does this allow the flavors to meld together beautifully overnight, but it also makes your life easier when it's time to serve. Just reheat the soup on the stove and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.

If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the broth and concentrate the flavors. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture. Don't forget to garnish each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of umami, making this dish feel gourmet without all the fuss.

Ingredients

1 pound Italian sausage
1 cup chopped onions
1/2 cup chopped carrots
1/2 cup chopped celery
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are soft.

Combine Ingredients

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

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Cook Pasta

Add pasta and continue to simmer until pasta is tender.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli!

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers—or you’re meal prepping for the week—storing your Pasta e Fagioli properly will ensure that it maintains its deliciousness. Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. It’s an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low to medium heat. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Microwaving is also an option, but be cautious to reheat in intervals to ensure it warms evenly without becoming too hot.

Serving Suggestions

While this Pasta e Fagioli is delicious on its own, pairing it with a crusty Italian bread or a side salad can elevate the meal experience. The bread is perfect for dipping, capturing every last bit of that rich, flavorful broth.

You can also serve the soup alongside a fresh garden salad lightly dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the savory flavors of the dish. This way, you're not only enjoying a hearty meal but also adding fresh greens to your diet, making it a wholesome dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just reheat on the stove before serving.