Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat Recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a warm bowl of Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat, packed full of vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta swimming in a rich, fragrant broth. This recipe captures the essence of that beloved classic, bringing you all the delicious flavors you crave from the Olive Garden, made right in your own kitchen. It’s a perfect dish to cozy up with on any day, delivering freshness and nourishment in every spoonful while showing off how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together in such a fantastic way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a special role, whether adding texture, depth, or bursts of flavor that create a beautifully balanced soup. Fresh vegetables, flavorful herbs, and hearty beans come together to make every bite memorable.

• 2 medium carrots (diced into small cubes): These bring a subtle sweetness and slight crunch that brighten the soup.
• 2 small zucchinis (diced into small cubes): Soft and mild, they soak up the broth’s flavor and add a hint of garden freshness.
• 1/2 large onion (diced into small cubes): Adds aromatic depth and a bit of natural sweetness as it cooks down.
• 6 celery stalks (diced into small cubes): Their crisp texture and slight earthiness balance the sweetness from carrots and onions.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic infuses the soup with savory warmth and a subtle kick that never overpowers.
• 28 oz canned diced tomatoes: Provides vibrant color and a tangy, juicy foundation for the broth.
• 32 oz vegetable broth: The soul of the soup, bringing everything together with robust flavor.
• 15 oz canned Great Northern beans (drained): Creamy and mild, these beans add substance and protein.
• 15 oz canned kidney beans (drained): Their firm texture and slightly nutty taste complement the other beans perfectly.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that gives the soup its classic Mediterranean flair.
• 1 tbsp dry basil: Adds a sweet, peppery hint that uplifts the overall flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup pasta: Small pasta shapes soak up the broth deliciously and add a comforting chew.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and adds a silky richness.
• 2 cups water: Adjusts the soup’s consistency to your liking, ensuring it’s not too thick.

How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot. Toss in the diced zucchini, carrots, celery, and onion, and sauté gently for about 10 minutes. This softens the vegetables and enhances their natural flavors, creating a fragrant base that’s simply irresistible as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Next, stir in the canned diced tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning and dry basil. The tomatoes lend a bright acidity that balances the soup, while the herbs fill the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that promise deliciousness ahead.

Step 3: Introduce Broth, Pasta, and Beans

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the half-cup of pasta along with the drained kidney and Great Northern beans. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes. If you prefer a thinner soup, now is the time to stir in the 2 cups of water, tailoring the consistency perfectly to your taste.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Simmer

Press the minced garlic into the pot and allow everything to simmer another 10 minutes. The garlic’s warmth melds beautifully with the other ingredients, deepening the flavor and resulting in a perfectly balanced soup.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Serve your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat piping hot. Its rich, cozy flavors make it a comforting meal on its own or a marvelous starter to any Italian-inspired dinner.

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl of Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat, consider topping it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely fruity note. These simple garnishes add bursts of flavor that turn a humble bowl of soup into a true delight.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a warm slice of crusty Italian bread or herbed focaccia, perfect for mopping up every last drop of broth. Alternatively, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to keep the meal light and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the minestrone soup in rustic bowls with a small ramekin of Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to add as they wish. For a stunning presentation, ladle it into hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls—your guests will be impressed by both the look and the delicious flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to mellow beautifully, making each subsequent serving even tastier.

Freezing

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat freezes wonderfully. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to store portions, and freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll always have a comforting meal at the ready.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture, as pasta and beans can soak up liquids when chilled or frozen.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans in this soup?

Absolutely! While Great Northern and kidney beans are classic choices, cannellini or chickpeas work great too. Just be sure to drain and rinse canned beans well before adding.

Is this soup vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be vegan if you skip any cheese garnish. The rich vegetable broth forms a flavorful, plant-based base.

What kind of pasta should I use?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work perfectly because they soak up the broth without overpowering the soup.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Just sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes to avoid mushiness.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties. Add it toward the end of cooking to prevent over-softening and enjoy without worry.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Copycat recipe is such a joyful way to enjoy a classic comfort food that fills the kitchen with heartwarming scents and your bowl with delicious, nourishing goodness. It’s perfect for any season, easy enough for a weeknight, and impressive enough for guests. I truly encourage you to give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your home too!

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