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Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

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Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Better Than Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, a delightful and hearty soup that you can easily create at home. This recipe features a perfect blend of tender beans, perfectly cooked pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in rich chicken broth. With its satisfying texture and savory taste, this dish is ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it uniquely yours!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ pound ground beef (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup ditalini pasta
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
  • Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery until softened (5–7 minutes).
  3. Stir in minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute.
  4. If using meat, add ground beef and cook until browned.
  5. Mix in tomato paste; cook for 1 minute to enhance flavors.
  6. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat.
  7. Add kidney and cannellini beans; simmer covered for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  8. Cook ditalini pasta according to package directions; add to soup.
  9. For creaminess, blend part of the soup and return it to the pot if desired.
  10. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

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