Copycat Olive Garden Fagioli Soup
Imagine a chilly evening, a cozy blanket, and a steaming bowl of comforting soup in hand. If that sounds like paradise to you, then you’re going to love this Copycat Olive Garden Fagioli Soup. This Italian-inspired soup is a delightful medley of hearty vegetables, tender pasta, rich beans, and flavorful ground beef, all brought together with the perfect blend of seasonings. It’s a meal that stands proudly on its own, satisfying both your hunger and your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is everything you want in a meal: hearty, filling, and healthy. But most importantly, it’s packed with flavor! The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of taste that will leave you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—all you need is one pot! That means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying a delicious dinner with your loved ones.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 can of cannellini beans, with the liquid
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 8 ounces of tomato sauce
- 14 ½ ounces chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked spinach pasta
Instructions
FIRST STEP:
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and add in the celery and onions. Cook until the onions are translucent.
SECOND STEP:
Add in the seasonings and cook for 5 minutes. Then, add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and tomatoes, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
THIRD STEP:
Add the pasta and cook for 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Stir in the can of beans with its liquid and heat through.
FOURTH STEP:
Before serving, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with breadsticks or a crusty slice of bread.
FIFTH STEP:
If you prefer, cook the pasta separately and add it to the bowl before ladling in the soup to avoid soggy pasta in leftovers. Serve alongside a sandwich, roasted vegetables, or any type of salad. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure all vegetables are chopped to similar sizes for even cooking.
- Simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you prefer a spicier kick.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutritional value. You can also swap the spinach pasta for any pasta you have on hand. For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This soup is a great source of fiber and protein, thanks to the beans and beef. It’s also packed with vitamins from the array of vegetables included.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze it, but it’s best to do so without the pasta, as it can become mushy when thawed and reheated.
How long does this soup last in the fridge? Store it in an airtight container, and it should last for up to 3 days.
Can I use fresh herbs? Absolutely! Fresh parsley and basil would be wonderful additions.
Conclusion
I hope you find as much joy in making and eating this soup as I do. It’s a true comfort food that brings a piece of Italy to your dining table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you come up with. Bon appétit!
