Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of soup that feels like a hug from the inside, especially when it’s as hearty and flavorful as Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli. Whether you’re craving a taste of nostalgia or simply need a cozy meal to warm your soul, this classic Italian-inspired dish delivers every time. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find it’s easier to make at home than you might think.
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a rich, savory soup that combines tender pasta, creamy beans, and a robust tomato broth infused with herbs and spices. While Olive Garden made it famous, this dish actually has humble roots in Italian home cooking, where families relied on pantry staples to create satisfying meals. What makes it special is its balance of textures and flavors—every spoonful offers a little bit of everything. Here at brekcakes.com, we celebrate recipes that bring people together, and this one fits perfectly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, much like our homemade chicken pot pie or classic beef stew.
Why I Love This Recipe
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family dinners where everyone lingered at the table just a little longer. The first time I recreated it at home, I realized how much joy comes from sharing a dish that’s both familiar and full of flavor. It’s the kind of meal that sparks conversation and leaves everyone feeling nourished—not just by the food, but by the connection it fosters. Every time I make it, I’m reminded why cooking is so much more than following a recipe.
Health and Nutrition
Why it’s good for your body
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli packs a nutritious punch while delivering classic comfort. First, the dish combines protein-rich beans and fiber-filled pasta, which helps keep you full longer. Additionally, the tomatoes provide a dose of antioxidants like lycopene, known for supporting heart health. Because the soup includes vegetables like carrots and celery, you also get essential vitamins such as vitamin A and K.
Moreover, Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli offers a balanced macronutrient profile. The beans contribute plant-based protein, while the pasta supplies energizing carbohydrates. Since the broth is light yet flavorful, you enjoy a satisfying meal without excessive calories. Furthermore, the olive oil used in the recipe adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which promote better cholesterol levels.
Finally, this dish is a great way to incorporate more legumes into your diet. Beans not only boost protein intake but also aid digestion thanks to their high fiber content. Whether you crave warmth or nourishment, Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli delivers both taste and wellness benefits in every bowl.
How it fits in a healthy lifestyle
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli fits seamlessly into a balanced diet. If you follow a heart-healthy eating plan, the soup’s lean protein and fiber content make it a smart choice. Pair it with a side salad for added greens, or enjoy it as a light lunch to stay on track with your goals.
For those focusing on plant-based meals, this dish offers a satisfying alternative to meat-heavy options. The beans provide ample protein, while the vegetables add essential micronutrients. If you’re exploring gluten-free adaptations, consider swapping regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. Check out our gluten-free pasta guide for easy substitutions.
Busy weeknights call for nourishing yet simple meals, and this soup delivers. It reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. For more tips on balancing convenience and nutrition, explore our quick healthy meals roundup. With its versatility and wholesome ingredients, Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli helps you eat well without sacrificing flavor.

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Description
A hearty Italian soup with pasta, beans, and vegetables, inspired by Olive Garden’s classic dish.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can white cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup ditalini pasta, uncooked
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, beef broth, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add ditalini pasta and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.