One-Pot Olive Garden Fagioli Soup – So Hearty & Delicious!

If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you’ve likely tasted their iconic Fagioli Soup— a savory, hearty, and comforting bowl filled with the rich flavors of cannellini beans, ground beef, and vegetables.

This soup is more than just a side dish; it’s a meal in itself, offering a perfect balance of flavors that have made it a favorite on the Olive Garden menu for years.

The best part? You don’t have to wait for your next trip to the restaurant to indulge in this warm, filling soup. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can recreate the magic of Olive Garden’s Fagioli Soup right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing dish for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make Olive Garden’s Fagioli Soup from scratch, as well as share a few tips and tricks to make it even more delicious. Let’s dive in!

What is Fagioli Soup?

Fagioli Soup, or Zuppa di Fagioli, is a traditional Italian bean soup that has been enjoyed for centuries. The word “fagioli” translates to “beans” in Italian, which gives you a hint about the key ingredient in this dish.

However, Fagioli Soup is far from just a basic bean soup—it’s a comforting, flavor-packed meal that often includes a rich medley of vegetables, herbs, and meats.

The Olive Garden version of Fagioli Soup has become a fan favorite because of its perfect balance of textures and flavors.

It combines creamy cannellini beans, tender vegetables like carrots and celery, and a savory broth, with a hearty addition of ground beef to make it more filling. This version also has a touch of Italian seasoning, bringing a touch of the Mediterranean right to your bowl.

What makes Fagioli Soup so special is not only the combination of ingredients but also how they come together to create a soup that’s hearty, satisfying, and comforting—perfect for any season.

Whether served on its own or alongside fresh breadsticks, this soup embodies the essence of classic Italian cooking: simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a sense of warmth and hospitality.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this comforting Olive Garden Fagioli Soup, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, flavorful dish.

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to get started:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): The hearty base of the soup, adding richness and depth of flavor.
• Cannellini Beans (2 cans, drained and rinsed): These creamy white beans are the star of the soup, providing texture and a mild, nutty flavor.
• Carrots (2, diced): For sweetness and a pop of color, diced carrots add a nice contrast to the savory components.
• Celery (2 stalks, diced): Celery enhances the soup’s base with a fresh, crisp flavor.
• Yellow Onion (1, diced): The onion provides an aromatic foundation for the soup.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): A must-have for depth and flavor, garlic brings that unmistakable savory essence.
• Chicken Broth (4 cups): The rich liquid that will form the soup’s base. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version or beef broth for a deeper flavor.
• Tomato Sauce (1 cup): Adds a touch of acidity and sweetness to balance the richness of the broth and beef.
• Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons): A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that’s key to giving the soup its signature Italian flavor.
• Fresh Spinach or Kale (1 cup, optional): For added nutrition and a pop of color, fresh greens like spinach or kale can be stirred in at the end.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course. Seasoning the soup properly is important for bringing out all the flavors.

These ingredients come together beautifully, but don’t be afraid to adjust the quantities or make substitutions to suit your preferences. Now, let’s jump into the step-by-step instructions to bring this cozy soup to life!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Olive Garden Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Start by prepping your vegetables. Peel and dice the carrots into small, bite-sized pieces. Slice the celery stalks and chop the onion into a medium dice.

Mince the garlic as finely as possible. The key here is to keep your cuts uniform so the vegetables cook evenly. Set everything aside in separate bowls so they’re ready to add when needed.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large soup pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink.

As the beef cooks, season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out its flavors. Once the beef is cooked through, remove any excess fat from the pot, leaving just a small amount to keep the richness of the soup.

Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables

Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned beef. Sauté them over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Stir frequently to prevent burning. Once the veggies are soft and aromatic, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Combining the Broth and Beans

Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Next, add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the pot.

Give everything a good mix to ensure the beans are evenly distributed in the soup.

Step 5: Simmering and Seasoning

Now that everything is in the pot, bring the soup to a simmer over medium-low heat. Allow it to simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This is when all the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally, and taste the soup after 15 minutes to see if it needs more seasoning.

Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed. For extra depth, you can even add a splash of red wine at this point—just let it cook off as the soup simmers.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the soup has simmered and all the ingredients are tender and flavorful, it’s time to add some fresh greens. Stir in a handful of spinach or kale for an added burst of color and nutrients. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted.

Taste the soup one last time for seasoning, and adjust as necessary. If you like a thicker soup, you can mash a few of the beans with a spoon or potato masher to create a creamier texture.

Tips for Making the Best Olive Garden Fagioli Soup

1. Use Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in the taste of your soup. Using fresh garlic, carrots, and celery will give the soup a vibrant, aromatic quality.

For the best flavor, choose high-quality chicken broth or make your own from scratch if possible.

2. Customize the Meat

While ground beef is the traditional choice for Olive Garden’s Fagioli Soup, feel free to get creative with your protein.

Ground turkey or chicken can work well for a lighter version, or you could skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian option. If you’re craving something even heartier, consider using Italian sausage for an extra kick of flavor.

3. Don’t Skip the Simmering Time

Allowing the soup to simmer for at least 20-25 minutes is key to developing deep, rich flavors. The longer you let the soup cook, the more the beans and vegetables release their natural flavors into the broth.

Patience is essential here, so don’t rush the simmering process!

4. Adjust the Consistency

If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans as the soup simmers to give it a creamy texture. On the other hand, if you like your soup a bit lighter, add more broth or water to thin it out. You can also blend a portion of the soup for a smoother texture.

5. Spice it Up (or Keep it Mild)

The Olive Garden version of Fagioli Soup is not typically spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your taste. Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking for a subtle kick. If you prefer a milder soup, feel free to skip the spicy seasonings altogether.

6. Add Extra Greens for a Nutrient Boost

While spinach or kale is optional, adding these leafy greens not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value of your soup. Kale, in particular, will hold up well during the simmering process, maintaining its texture and adding a slight earthiness to the flavor.

7. Make It Ahead of Time

Like most soups, Fagioli Soup tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks—simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The soup also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it later.

Serving Suggestions

1. Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks

No Olive Garden meal is complete without their famous, warm, garlicky breadsticks! Serve your Fagioli Soup with a side of freshly baked breadsticks to soak up all the delicious broth. You can make your own at home or purchase them from the store for a quick and easy option.

2. A Simple Side Salad

Pair your Fagioli Soup with a light, refreshing side salad to balance the richness of the soup. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or Olive Garden’s classic salad with olives, cucumbers, and a zesty Italian dressing would complement the flavors perfectly.

3. A Slice of Crusty Italian Bread

For an extra touch of authenticity, serve your soup with a thick slice of crusty Italian bread. The bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, allowing you to enjoy every last drop of that hearty, flavorful broth.

4. Grated Parmesan on Top

For a true Olive Garden experience, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of each bowl of Fagioli Soup. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese enhances the soup’s flavors and adds an extra layer of richness.

5. A Light Pasta Side

If you’re looking to make your meal more substantial, serve the soup alongside a small portion of pasta, such as penne or spaghetti. This classic Italian combination will fill you up without feeling too heavy.

6. Pair with a Crisp White Wine

For a delightful wine pairing, serve your Fagioli Soup with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in these wines cuts through the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing contrast to the meal.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Storing Leftover Fagioli Soup

If you have any leftovers, don’t worry—this soup stores beautifully for later meals! Once the soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. If the soup has thickened after refrigeration, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Freezing Fagioli Soup

For long-term storage, Fagioli Soup also freezes well! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Be sure to leave some room for expansion if using a container.

This soup will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove. You might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.

Tips for Freezing:

• If you plan to freeze your soup, it’s best to leave out the fresh greens (spinach or kale) as they can become mushy after freezing and thawing. You can always add them in fresh when reheating the soup.
• For the best texture, avoid freezing any dairy or cream that might be added to the soup. If you like to add a creamy element, consider stirring in some cream or milk when reheating the soup, rather than freezing it with the cream.

Conclusion: Enjoy a Cozy Bowl of Olive Garden Fagioli Soup

Making Olive Garden’s Fagioli Soup at home is not only an easy way to enjoy a classic dish, but it’s also a fantastic way to bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen.

With its hearty blend of beans, vegetables, and savory broth, this soup is perfect for any occasion—from a cozy family dinner to a crowd-pleasing meal for guests.

The best part? This recipe is fully customizable—whether you want to use different vegetables, switch up the meat, or even make it vegetarian, the result will still be a bowl full of deliciousness.

Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal, saving you time during busy weeks while ensuring you have a comforting meal ready to go.

So, the next time you’re craving that famous Olive Garden flavor, skip the drive-thru and try making this homemade Fagioli Soup. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying a bowl of pure Italian comfort in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker! To do so, brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the broth, beans, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the greens during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from overcooking.

2. Can I use other types of beans in place of cannellini beans?

Yes! If you can’t find cannellini beans or prefer a different type, feel free to use other white beans, such as great northern beans or navy beans. You can also try kidney beans for a slightly different texture and flavor.

3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add some extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added depth.

4. Can I add pasta to the soup?

Absolutely! If you prefer a heartier soup, adding some small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni) can make it even more filling. Just cook the pasta separately and stir it in at the end to avoid it becoming too mushy.

5. How do I store and reheat the soup if I make a large batch?

For storing, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove, adding extra broth or water to adjust the consistency if needed. You can also freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.